German Recovery Efforts Post-WWI

German Recovery Efforts Post-WWI

• Stresemann's new government implemented currency reforms to revitalize Germany.
• Stresemann negotiated with France to remove their troops from the Rhineland.
• The Dawes Plan, initiated by the U.S., provided financial assistance to rebuild Germany's economy and enable reparation payments.
• General von Hindenburg elected President in 1925, contributing to national stability.
• The Locarno Treaties marked German acceptance of the Treaty of Versailles and abandonment of reclaiming Alsace-Lorraine.
• Germany seemed to achieve stability in the mid-1920s.
• However, 1929 brought new challenges.

After the failed coup of 1923 and Hitler's release from jail, he transformed the NSDAP (National Socialist German Workers' Party) into one of Germany's largest political parties. Hitler's ideas resonated particularly with young people, small shop owners, civil servants, and farmers.

Firstly, Hitler aimed to abolish the Treaty of Versailles, which he viewed as a disgrace to Germany. He blamed the Treaty for unjustly assigning blame for the war, demanding extensive territorial concessions, imposing reparations, and limiting the size of the German army. Secondly, he sought to dismantle the Weimar Republic. The government and parliament had allegedly betrayed the people, maintaining the "stab-in-the-back myth" after World War I. Despite promises, political parties failed to enact substantial change. Lastly, Hitler vowed to tackle unemployment. He promised to ensure widespread employment and prosperity. The NSDAP adopted a nationalistic stance. The party advocated for Germany's restoration to greatness and strength, fostering national pride. Additionally, it embraced authoritarianism, rejecting democracy in favour of strong, centralized leadership.

Hitler's charisma and ideals attracted many followers, supplemented by three key factors. Firstly, his compelling speeches and presence captivated audiences, leaving a strong impression wherever he went. Secondly, Joseph Goebbels, Hitler's colleague, orchestrated an extensive propaganda campaign to portray Hitler and the NSDAP favourably. He used various mediums such as parades, posters, newspapers, films, and radio programmes. Lastly, the Nazis, as the national-socialists referred to themselves, employed violence and intimidation tactics to advance their agenda. The SA assaulted individuals who spoke against the party or Hitler, instilling fear among dissenters.