Germany Post-WWI: Treaty of Versailles Quiz

A feeling of intense patriotism and national pride, often leading to a desire for independence or unification with other groups sharing a common identity.

The policy of extending a country's power and influence through colonization, military expansion, or economic dominance.

The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, on June28th, 1914, by a Bosnian Serb nationalist.

A system of treaties between nations that obligated them to come to each other's defense in case of an attack.

Germany's plan to avoid a two-front war by quickly defeating France through a rapid invasion of neutral Belgium.

Harsh reparations and territorial losses imposed on Germany by the Treaty of Versailles after World War I, seen as punitive and a contributing factor to the rise of Nazi Germany.

The treaty signed by Austria after World War I, which led to the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the creation of new nations.

The policy pursued by Germany under Kaiser Wilhelm II characterized by aggressive military buildup, colonial expansion, and a desire for global power.

Limited military capabilities imposed on Austria after World War I, restricting its army size, weaponry, and even the ability to unite with Germany.

The complex network of alliances formed between European nations before World War I, which contributed to the rapid spread of the war.

Germany was severely restricted in its military capabilities after World War I. Its army was limited to only 100,000 troops, conscription was banned, and the use of tanks, heavy artillery, and an air force was forbidden. Naval capabilities were also restricted, with only six battleships permitted and submarines prohibited.

A region in Germany was declared a demilitarized zone, meaning no German troops were allowed to be stationed there. This area was known as the Rhineland.

Germany was forced to pay massive reparations to the victorious Allied powers after World War I. These payments crippled the German economy, leading to hyperinflation, poverty, and unemployment.

Germany was forbidden from uniting with other German-speaking regions, such as Austria. This was intended to prevent Germany from becoming too powerful.

The Treaty of Versailles was viewed by many Germans as unfair and humiliating. They felt betrayed and blamed for the entire war, leading to resentment and anger. This resentment contributed to the rise of extremist ideologies in Germany.

A democratic government established in Germany after World War I, replacing the German Empire. It aimed to create a more democratic Germany in exchange for peace with the Allies.

A period of economic prosperity and cultural flourishing in Germany during the 1920s.

A plan designed to help Germany pay reparations after World War I by providing loans from the United States and stabilizing German currency.

A treaty signed in 1925 that promised to maintain Germany's western borders with France and Belgium, contributing to Germany's entry into the League of Nations.

The Treaty of Versailles imposed harsh punishments on Germany after World War I, including territorial losses, disarmament, and heavy reparations. This harsh treatment contributed to resentment and instability in Germany, ultimately influencing the rise of the Nazi Party.

The Great Depression was a severe worldwide economic downturn that began in 1929 and lasted until the late 1930s. It was triggered by the stock market crash in America, leading to bank failures, business closures and widespread unemployment.

The Great Depression had a profound impact on Germany, exacerbating its economic woes after World War I. The collapse of banks forced them to repay borrowed money from the Dawes Plan, leading to a severe economic depression that fueled disillusionment with the existing government.

Hitler exploited the economic crisis to gain support, promising jobs, stability, and a return to Germany's former glory. He blamed Jews, communists, and the Treaty of Versailles for Germany's problems, appealing to various groups like workers seeking jobs, middle class seeking protection, and the wealthy seeking anti-communism.

Hitler's rise to power was fueled by several factors. He resonated with Germans who resented the Treaty of Versailles and saw the Weimar Republic as weak and ineffective. He also appealed to those fearing a communist revolution, offering a strong anti-communist alternative.

Starting with the German Workers' Party, Hitler quickly ascended to a position of leadership, utilizing his charisma and powerful oratory skills to attract large crowds. He focused on rallying support from various segments of society, promising jobs, living space, and a brighter future.

Hitler exploited the Reichstag fire by claiming it was a communist plot, convincing President Hindenburg to pass emergency decrees that eliminated civil liberties. This paved the way for Hitler's rise to dictatorship.

The Enabling Act was passed in 1933, granting Hitler the power to make laws without the Reichstag for four years. This solidified his control and marked the beginning of his totalitarian regime.

After becoming Chancellor, Hitler quickly consolidated his power by exploiting the Reichstag fire to pass the Reichstag Fire Decree, suspending civil liberties. This allowed him to control the media, silence opposition, and establish a totalitarian regime.

The Enabling Act gave Hitler the power to rule by decree, effectively bypassing the Reichstag and establishing a dictatorship.

The Night of the Long Knives was a purge orchestrated by the SS and Gestapo targeting leaders of the SA (Stormtroopers) and potential rivals. This event consolidated Hitler's control over the Nazi party and military.

After Hindenburg passed away, Hitler combined the roles of Chancellor and President, taking the title of "Führer" (leader). He became the absolute head of state, increasing his authority.

The Nazis used propaganda through controlled media, rallies, and speeches to create a cult of personality around Hitler, suppress opposition, and promote their ideology.

The Nazis implemented public work programs, funding construction, and military rearmament to reduce unemployment and stimulate the economy.

The Nazis established a centralized and authoritarian government, with all power concentrated in Hitler and the Nazi party.

Hitler's strong leadership and perceived restoration of order after the economic crisis, created a favorable public opinion.

Nazi Germany withdrew from the League of Nations, defying the agreement and asserting its independence on the world stage.

The Nazis reoccupied the Rhineland, breaking the Treaty of Versailles and demonstrating their disregard for international laws.

The Nazi regime promoted a vision of women primarily as mothers, homemakers, and dedicated to the family. This ideology was embodied in the slogan "Kinder, Küche, Kirche" (children, kitchen, church).

The Kapp Putsch was a failed coup attempt in 1920 by right-wing paramilitary groups, aimed at overthrowing the Weimar Republic. The Freikorps, a group of ex-soldiers, seized control of Berlin, but Ebert's government survived thanks to a general strike that paralyzed the city and crippled their operations.

The hyperinflation of the Weimar Republic was characterized by an uncontrollable rise in prices triggered by the printing of excessive amounts of money to cover war reparations and economic instability. It led to a significant decline in the value of German currency, making it difficult for people to afford goods and services. The situation disproportionately affected middle and lower classes, while wealthy people saw their savings eroded.

The Ruhr Crisis (1923) was a conflict between Germany and France when France occupied the Ruhr Valley in response to Germany's failure to make reparation payments. This led to passive resistance from German workers and the collapse of the German currency due to economic sabotage. The crisis further destabilized the Weimar Republic and contributed to the rise of extremist groups.

The Schutzbund was a paramilitary organization affiliated with the Austrian Social Democratic Worker's Party (SDAP). It was created to protect the interests of the working class and was often involved in clashes with right-wing groups like the Heimwehr. Its members were primarily workers from factories and public services.

The Heimwehr was a right-wing paramilitary group in Austria, similar to the Freikorps in Germany. They were primarily composed of Austrian nationalists, veterans, and conservative forces. They fought against the Schutzbund and were often accused of antisemitism. Their aim was to oppose socialism and promote Austrian nationalism.

The Schattendorf Incident of 1927 was a significant event that highlighted the growing tensions between left-wing and right-wing groups in Austria. It involved the shooting of unarmed workers and their families by a paramilitary group, the Frontkämpfervereinigung. The perpetrators were not found guilty, sparking outrage among socialists and deepening the sense of injustice, further fueling social and political divisions.

The July Revolt (1927) was a large-scale protest in Vienna sparked by the Schattendorf Incident, demonstrating anger towards the perceived injustice of the judicial system. It led to violent clashes with the police and the burning of the Palace of Justice, symbolizing the protesters' frustration with the government's corruption and unfair treatment of the working class.

Engelbert Dollfuß, Chancellor of Austria from 1932 to 1934, implemented a form of authoritarian rule known as Austro-Fascism. He sought to establish Austria as a Catholic and independent state, suppressing both communism and Nazism. Dollfuß dissolved Parliament, banned the Nazi party, and used a combination of suppression and political maneuvering to maintain power.

Austro-Fascism was a form of authoritarianism implemented in Austria by Dollfuß and later Schuschnigg. It aimed to establish a Catholic and independent Austria, suppressing both communism and Nazism, while maintaining traditional values and social order. It was a response to the instability caused by the Great Depression and political divisions, but ultimately failed to prevent the annexation by Nazi Germany.

Kurt Schuschnigg, Chancellor of Austria from 1934 to 1938, continued the policies of Austro-Fascism, but faced increasing pressure from Nazi Germany. He tried to maintain Austria's independence but lacked the necessary support from other nations. He faced mounting challenges due to Hitler's growing influence and ultimately failed to prevent the Anschluss, the annexation of Austria by the Nazi regime.

The Austrian Civil War of 1934 was a conflict that erupted between the Schutzbund and the Heimwehr, fueled by growing political and social divisions. The conflict began with the government's decision to disarm the Schutzbund, leading to violent clashes between the two factions. Despite a failed attempt to overthrow the government, the conflict ultimately paved the way for the rise of Austro-Fascism and Engelbert Dollfuß's authoritarian rule.

The Anschluss was the annexation of Austria into Nazi Germany in 1938. It was facilitated by Nazi pressure, internal divisions within Austria, and the lack of support from other nations. This event marked a significant step towards Hitler's expansionist ambitions and dramatically shifted the political landscape of Europe.

The 1934 Civil War in Austria highlighted the fragility of Austria's democratic institutions and the growing influence of extremist groups. It led to the establishment of Austro-Fascism, a form of authoritarian rule that ultimately failed to prevent the annexation by Nazi Germany. This event serves as a reminder of the dangers of political instability and the importance of strong democratic governance.

In the interwar period, Austria faced severe economic and political challenges, including the effects of the Great Depression, the rise of extremism, and the threat of foreign intervention. Despite efforts to maintain stability, the nation was deeply divided between socialist and conservative groups, which fueled social unrest and instability. These divisions ultimately contributed to the failure of democracy and the rise of authoritarianism.

The rise of paramilitary groups in interwar Austria intensified the existing social and political divides. Groups like the Schutzbund and the Heimwehr were often involved in violent clashes, demonstrating the escalation of tensions within the country. These groups played a significant role in undermining the democratic process and creating an environment ripe for authoritarianism and external intervention.

The ultimate outcome of the events in interwar Austria was the loss of its independence and the rise of authoritarianism. The failure to address economic and political challenges, the rise of extremism, and the absence of strong international support paved the way for the annexation by Nazi Germany. This starkly illustrates the importance of strong democratic institutions and the need to address societal divisions effectively.