Germany in 1918: Problems and Revolution
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following factors contributed to the growing problems in Germany by 1918?

  • The army was winning the war.
  • Successful Spring Offensive.
  • Kaiser Wilhelm II maintaining strong support.
  • The Allied blockade causing food shortages. (correct)

Kaiser Wilhelm II abdicated voluntarily without any pressure from his ministers or the Allies.

False (B)

What event in Russia influenced revolutionary feelings in Germany?

Russian Revolution

On November 9th, power was given to Friedrich Ebert from the ______ party.

<p>Social Democrat</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following events with their descriptions:

<p>Kiel Mutiny = Sailors refusing to follow orders and fight the British navy. Abdication of Kaiser Wilhelm II = Stepping down from power due to loss of control and pressure from Allies. Establishment of Weimar Republic = Germany's first democratic government. Workers’ and Soldiers’ council = Took over the dockyard</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary reason for the sailors' mutiny at Wilhelmshaven?

<p>Refusal to follow orders and engage in further combat. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Allied blockade of German ports had no significant impact on the German population during World War I.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What title did Friedrich Ebert assume as the head of the new government?

<p>Chancellor</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the clauses within the Treaty of Versailles directly placed the burden of war responsibility on Germany?

<p>Article 231 – The War Guilt Clause (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Treaty of Versailles allowed Germany to maintain a substantial navy, including battleships and submarines, to protect its coastline.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What specific action regarding Austria was forbidden to Germany under the territorial terms of the Treaty of Versailles?

<p>Anschluss</p> Signup and view all the answers

As part of the reparations outlined in the Treaty of Versailles, France was granted control to mine the ______ coalfields for a duration of 15 years.

<p>Saar</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the territorial losses imposed on Germany by the Treaty of Versailles with their respective recipients:

<p>Alsace-Lorraine = France Danzig = Free City Malmedy = Belgium Germany's Overseas Empire = Britain and France</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the primary goal of the Spartacist Uprising in Germany?

<p>Overthrowing the Weimar Republic and establishing a communist state. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The extreme right-wing groups in Germany supported the Treaty of Versailles and sought to uphold its conditions.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the 'Dolchstoss Theory' and which political faction commonly believed in it?

<p>The 'Dolchstoss Theory' was the idea that Germany had been stabbed in the back, and it was believed by right-wing groups.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The attempted takeover by the extreme right wing, known as the _______ Putsch, aimed to establish a military dictatorship.

<p>Kapp</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the main purpose of the Dawes Plan introduced by Gustav Stresemann?

<p>To help Germany pay reparations with a reduced and restructured payment plan and loans. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the political groups with their primary goals in post-WWI Germany:

<p>Communists = Establish equality and worker-owned businesses. Extreme Right-Wing = Establish a strong military leadership and ignore the Treaty of Versailles. Weimar Republic = Stop the chance of a communist revolution.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Rentenmark was introduced as a permanent currency to replace the old mark during hyperinflation.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What action taken by Ebert provoked the Kapp Putsch in 1920?

<p>Attempting to reduce the size of the army and disband the Freikorps. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Weimar Republic faced threats only from the left-wing political groups, such as the Spartacists.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What key action did Stresemann take to immediately address the hyperinflation crisis?

<p>He ordered the old currency (the mark) to be burned and destroyed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Besides the Dawes Plan, Stresemann signed the __________ Treaty with France and Belgium, Great Britain, and Italy to ensure existing borders remained.

<p>Locarno</p> Signup and view all the answers

Approximately how many political murders were carried out by right-wing groups in Germany between 1919 and 1922?

<p>376 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following actions with their corresponding outcomes during Stresemann's chancellorship:

<p>Introduction of the Rentenmark = Stabilization of prices and end of hyperinflation Signing of the Locarno Treaty = Improved international relations and trust Dawes Plan Implementation = Restructuring of reparation payments and economic recovery Germany Joining the League of Nations = Increased international respect and re-emergence as a 'Great Power'</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did US banks contribute to the German economic recovery following the hyperinflation period?

<p>By providing substantial loans for infrastructure development and economic stimulus. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Gustav Stresemann's policies led to a period of increased international isolation for Germany during the Weimar Republic.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What specific action related to the Ruhr crisis did Stresemann take to facilitate the withdrawal of French and Belgium troops?

<p>Stresemann ordered an end to the strike in the Ruhr.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was a key component of the Young Plan negotiated by Germany in 1929?

<p>Germany's reparations were reduced from £6 billion to £1.85 billion. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Kellogg-Briand Pact, signed by Germany in 1928, mandated the complete disarmament of all signatory nations.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What effect did Stresemann's coalition-building efforts have on the Reichstag?

<p>It ended long arguments and allowed the Weimar Republic to make decisions quickly.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Young Plan reduced Germany's reparations payments and extended the payment period to ______ years.

<p>60</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match each agreement or treaty with its primary purpose:

<p>Kellogg-Briand Pact = To resolve disagreements by peaceful means. Young Plan = To reduce Germany's reparation payments. Locarno Treaty = To improve Germany's international reputation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a limitation of Germany's recovery between 1924 and 1929?

<p>High unemployment rates and reliance on American loans. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Weimar Republic was able to make quick decisions as a result of the long arguments in the Reichstag.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Name three things that Stresemann did that improved Germany's international reputation.

<p>ending the Ruhr Crisis and hyperinflation, the Locarno Treaty, entry to the League of Nations and Kellogg Briand Pact.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Neue Sachlichkeit art focused on which of the following themes?

<p>Realism and commentary on societal problems (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The plays and operas of the Weimar Republic's golden age avoided controversial topics to appeal to a wider audience.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was one significant factor that allowed writers and artists to experiment with new ideas during the Weimar Republic's golden age?

<p>Political stabilization</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Treaty of Versailles was despised by Germans due to its perceived harsh terms, particularly the assignment of sole responsibility for the war to Germany under Article ________.

<p>231</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following events directly challenged the Weimar Republic in the years 1919-1923?

<p>The Kapp Putsch (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Ruhr Crisis of 1923 involved France and Belgium occupying the Ruhr region due to Germany's failure to meet reparations payments.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Rudiger Grafin, how did the new generation of women in Weimar Germany differ from their mothers?

<p>They had improved positions in the workforce and newly acquired rights as citizens.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following events with their impacts on the Weimar Republic:

<p>Treaty of Versailles = Economic hardship and resentment Kapp Putsch = Political instability from attempted overthrow Ruhr Crisis = Hyperinflation and further economic devastation Golden Age of Culture = Period of experimentation in the arts</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Article 231

Clause in the Treaty of Versailles that forced Germany to accept full responsibility for starting World War I.

Reparations

Compensation payments Germany was forced to make to Britain, France, and Belgium after WWI.

Rhineland

German territory bordering France that was demilitarized after WWI.

Anschluss

The act of joining or unifying Austria and Germany, forbidden by the Treaty of Versailles.

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Alsace-Lorraine

Territories returned to France after WWI as part of the Treaty of Versailles.

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Germany's problems in 1918

By 1918, Germany faced problems: the Spring Offensive failed, heavy losses, and food shortages due to the Allied blockade.

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Anger towards Kaiser Wilhelm II

Civilians and soldiers grew angry at Kaiser Wilhelm II due to hardships and failures during the war.

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Influence of Russian Revolution

Inspired by the Russian Revolution, some Germans wanted to overthrow the Kaiser and establish a government representing the people.

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Kaiser's Abdication

In late 1918, revolutionary feelings spread, leading to the Kaiser's abdication (stepping down).

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Kiel Mutiny

German sailors refused orders at Wilhelmshaven, starting the Kiel Mutiny.

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Workers' and Soldiers' Councils

Sailors and dock workers formed Workers’ and Soldiers’ councils to govern themselves.

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Kaiser Flees

Facing loss of control, Kaiser Wilhelm II abdicated and fled to Holland.

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Weimar Republic

Friedrich Ebert (SPD) became Chancellor, establishing the Weimar Republic – Germany's first democracy.

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Communist Revolution (1917)

A political upheaval in Russia in 1917 that promoted revolutionary ideas, impacting Germany.

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Communists (in Germany)

Extreme left-wing group aiming for equality and shared ownership of businesses.

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German Extreme Right Wing

Extreme right-wing faction advocating for a strong army, military leadership, and ignoring the Treaty of Versailles.

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Workers' Councils (1918)

Workers establishing councils, sparking concerns within the army and Weimar Republic.

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Spartacist Uprising

An extreme left-wing group aiming to transform Germany into a communist state, led by Karl Liebknecht and Rosa Luxemburg.

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Dolchstoss Theory

A theory that Germany was betrayed during World War I. Namely, stabbed in the back.

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Kapp Putsch

Attempted coup in 1920 by right-wing elements, including the Freikorps, against the Weimar Republic.

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Matthias Erzberger

Weimar politician assassinated in 1921 for signing the Treaty of Versailles.

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Who was Gustav Stresemann?

Gustav Stresemann was the Chancellor of Germany in August 1923.

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What was the Dawes Plan?

A plan devised by US banker Charles Dawes to help Germany pay reparations and stabilize its economy.

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How did Dawes Plan solve the Ruhr Crisis?

The Dawes Plan helped resolve the Ruhr Crisis, leading to French and Belgian troops withdrawing from the Ruhr region.

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What was Rentenmark?

A temporary new currency introduced by Stresemann to end hyperinflation.

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How Stresemann tackled hyperinflation?

Stresemann burned and destroyed the old currency to end hyperinflation.

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What was the Locarno Treaty?

Treaty signed in 1925 between Germany, France, Belgium, Great Britain, and Italy that agreed borders should remain the same.

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When did Germany join the League of Nations?

Germany was allowed to join the League of Nations in 1926 after earning international trust.

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How did US loans help Germany?

US banks loaned billions of dollars to Germany to build infrastructure and boost the economy.

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Kellogg-Briand Pact (1928)

An international agreement in 1928 where 64 countries agreed to resolve disputes peacefully and limit armies to self-defense.

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The Young Plan (1929)

A 1929 plan that reduced Germany's reparations from £6 billion to $1.85 billion and extended the payment period to 60 years.

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Political Stability (under Stresemann)

The ability of different political parties in the Reichstag to cooperate, enabling quicker decision-making and stability.

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Stresemann ended Ruhr Crisis and Hyperinflation

Ended the most serious crises in 1923.

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Improved International Reputation

Germany's international standing improved due to the Locarno Treaty.

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Reliance on American Loans

Germany relied heavily on loans from America, making it vulnerable to economic downturns.

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Persistent Unemployment

Despite improvements, unemployment remained a significant issue in Germany during this period.

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Wall Street Crash

The Wall Street Crash was in 1929.

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Neue Sachlichkeit

An objective artistic movement in Weimar Republic that reflected societal problems through realism.

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Realist Weimar Theatre

Plays and operas in the Weimar Republic that depicted real-life struggles and critiques of German society.

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Golden Age of Weimar

A flourishing era of innovation and creativity in arts and society during the Weimar Republic.

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Women in Weimar

The increase in rights, opportunities, and changing roles of women during the Weimar Republic.

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Weimar Cultural Revival

Experimentation and innovation across various artistic mediums during the Weimar Republic.

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Kapp Putsch, 1920

Failed attempt to overthrow the Weimar Republic by right-wing elements.

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Ruhr Crisis, 1923

Economic crisis caused by France and Belgium occupying the Ruhr region due to Germany's failure to pay reparations.

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Treaty of Versailles Hatred

A treaty clause blaming Germany for World War I, causing resentment.

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Study Notes

  • The Weimar Germany Revision Guide covers key topics from 1919–1929, including the setting up of the Weimar Republic, early challenges, recovery, and the Golden Age.

Weimar Republic Setting Up

  • Kaiser II abdicated and fled Germany on November 9, 1918, leading to the establishment of the Weimar Republic.
  • The Weimar Republic was Germany's first democratic government.
  • Friedrich Ebert from the Social Democratic Party (SPD) became Chancellor on November 10, 1918.
  • The new government called for a ceasefire, leading to the armistice on November 11, 1918, ending World War I.
  • The Weimar Constitution granted freedom of speech, religion, assembly, personal freedom, and equality.
  • All men and women over 20 could vote.
  • The Reichstag (government) was elected by the people and made laws.
  • Proportional representation allowed political parties to gain seats in the Reichstag based on their vote share.
  • The President, elected by the people, headed the Weimar Republic and army; chose the Chancellor and could use Article 48.
  • The Chancellor headed the government.
  • The Cabinet was the main decision-making body.
  • The Reichstag and Reichsrat made up the Parliament, with members elected through proportional representation.
  • Article 48 allowed the President to rule independently in emergencies.
  • Strengths of the Weimar Constitution included proportional representation and prevention of dictatorship.
  • Weaknesses included coalition governments, many political parties, opposition from the army and civil servants, and the potential for presidential dictatorship through Article 48.
  • Key political parties included the Communists (KPD), Social Democrats (SPD), Centre Party, German People's Party (DVP), and National Socialist Party (NSDAP).

Early Challenges (1918-1923)

  • Germany faced growing problems by 1918, including the failure of the Spring Offensive, over 2 million soldiers lost, and food shortages due to the Allied blockade.
  • Revolutionary feeling spread, leading to the Kaiser's abdication.
  • German sailors at Wilhelmshaven refused orders on October 29, 1918 which led to the Kiel Mutiny.
  • The war had cost Germany £37 billion and the Allied blockade caused mass starvation, leading to 500,000 deaths.
  • Many Germans felt the government had "stabbed them in the back" by surrendering.
  • The Treaty of Versailles was seen as a dictated peace (Diktat) and was decided by Britain, France, and the USA, Germany had no say.
  • Military terms limited the German army to 100,000 men, banned conscription, tanks, and artillery, and demilitarized the Rhineland.
  • Germany had to accept blame for starting the war (Article 231) and pay reparations of £6.6 billion.
  • Germany lost 13% of its land, 6 million Germans, overseas empire, 48% of its coal production, and merchant navy.
  • The loss of armed forces and territory hurt Germany's pride and economy.
  • Ebert and the Weimar Government were called the "November Criminals".
  • There were constant threats from the left and right, assassinations, and uprisings.
  • The Spartacists, led by Karl Liebknecht and Rosa Luxemburg, attempted to turn Germany into a communist country.
  • in January 1919, 50,000 Spartacists tried to overthrow Ebert-led government; the army and Freikorps crushed the rebellion.
  • Right-wing groups wanted a strong military leadership and ignored the Treaty of Versailles.
  • In 1920, Wolfgang Kapp led the Kapp Putsch to establish a right-wing government; the putsch failed due to lack of support.
  • Violence and murder were common, with 376 murders between 1919-1922, including the assassinations of Matthias Erzberger and Walther Rathenau.
  • In 1920 week after Kapp Putsch, a communist group called the Red Army rebelled in the Ruhr but they were taken down by the army.
  • The economic crisis of 1923 involved hyperinflation due to reparations and the occupation of the Ruhr.
  • In January 1923, French and Belgian troops occupied the Ruhr to seize raw materials, leading to passive resistance by German workers.
  • German industrial production fell dramatically and This united the German people against the French and made the impact of the Treaty of Versailles worse.
  • To support the workers the government printed more money to pay them, however, as the government had no money this caused the value of the mark (money) to drop, leading to hyperinflation.
  • Hyperinflation caused the mark to become worthless, starvation, and poverty.

Recovery and the Golden Age (1924-1929)

  • in August 1923, Gustav Stresemann appointed Chancellor.
  • The Dawes Plan tackled hyperinflation by burning the existing currency and introducing the Rentenmark.
  • The Dawes plan also created a new currency and gave Germany more time to pay reparations and US banks loaned Germany money to boost the economy.
  • Through Stresemann, Germany negotiated the Young Plan in between the years 1924-1929.
  • The Young plan reduced reparations from £6 billion to $1.85 billion.
  • Stresemann ordered the end to the strike in the Ruhr and this crisis was solved.
  • The Locarno Treaty improved international relations.
  • Germany was admitted to the League of Nations and also signed the Kellogg-Briand Pact.
  • Stresemann organised a coalition of different parties in the Reichstag, improving political stability.
  • Wages increased and industry grew whilst there was less striking.
  • The Weimar government attempted to deal with a critical shortage of housing and reduced homelessness.
  • An unemployment insurance law was added.
  • Women over 20 could vote and took an increasing interest in politics.
  • Germany became a cultural capital of Europe, censorship was removed and exciting are and culture emerged from the period.
  • New architecture and design emerged, called the Bauhaus and the cinema and theatre sectors boomed.

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Explore the factors contributing to Germany's growing problems by 1918, including the sailors' mutiny and the influence of the Russian Revolution. Learn about Kaiser Wilhelm II's abdication and the transfer of power to Friedrich Ebert. Test your knowledge of the Treaty of Versailles and its impact on Germany.

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