Weimar Germany (Detailed/in depth)

• What is the significance of World War I in the context of the Weimar Republic?

  World War I significantly impacted the early years of the Weimar Republic.
• Which countries were part of the Allies against Germany in World War I?

  Britain, France, Russia, and later the USA.
• How long did World War I last?

  The war lasted four years, from 1914 to 1918.
• How many German troops were killed during World War I?

  2 million German troops were killed.
• What financial impact did World War I have on Germany?

  It caused spiraling debt, which by 1918 was three times the debt of 1914.
• How many German troops were wounded during World War I?

  4 million German troops were wounded.
• What was the effect of the British Navy on German trade routes in 1918?

  The British Navy blocked German trade routes, leading to severe food shortages.
• How many people are estimated to have died from hunger in Germany due to food shortages?

  It is estimated that 750,000 people died from hunger.
• What political ideas became popular in Germany after World War I?

  The Communist ideas of workers and soldiers councils became popular.
• What actions did people in Germany take in response to food shortages?

  People protested and rioted in the streets.
• What significant event occurred in Russia just before the end of World War I?

  The Russian Revolution took place.
• Why were leaders in the West afraid after the Russian Revolution?

  They feared a similar revolution could happen in their own countries.
• What led to Germany losing World War I?

  Germany was unable to feed its people or troops, leading to resistance at the front.
• What was the situation in Germany by November 1918?

  The country was in uproar with protests, strikes, and riots.
• What was the final event that led to the abdication of the Kaiser?

  The Navy rebellions in Kiel and Hamburg were the final event.
• What did the sailors in Kiel and Hamburg shout during the rebellions?

  They shouted for freedom, peace, and bread.
• What happened on the 9th of November 1918 regarding the Kaiser?

  Kaiser Wilhelm II abdicated on the 9th of November 1918.
• Where did Kaiser Wilhelm II go after his abdication?

  He went into exile in Holland.
• What did Philip Scheidemann announce to the crowds in Berlin?

  He announced the abdication of the Kaiser and the establishment of a republic.
• What was the role of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) after the Kaiser’s abdication?

  The SDP had to quickly set up the Republic to calm the crowds.
• Who became Chancellor after the abdication of the Kaiser?

  Frederick Ebert became Chancellor.
• What did Ebert do to stabilize the new government?

  Ebert contacted the army leader to agree to work together.
• What was the purpose of forming the Council of People's Representatives?

  The council was formed to lead the country until a formal Constitution could be written.
• What was the outcome of Ebert's quick actions after the Kaiser’s abdication?

  His actions calmed the crowds and avoided a Communist Revolution.
• When was the Armistice signed to end World War I?

  The Armistice was signed on the 11th of November 1918.
• Who signed the Armistice on behalf of the new German government?

  Matas Erzberger signed the Armistice.
• How did many Germans perceive the signing of the Armistice?

  Many Germans saw it as a betrayal of those who sacrificed their lives.
• What challenges did Ebert face after the Armistice?

  Ebert had to keep the support of the people, industry leaders, and the army.
• What steps did Ebert take to maintain order in Germany?

  Ebert kept existing civil servants, communicated with army leaders, and met with industry leaders.
• Why did Ebert meet with leaders of trade unions?

  He met to agree on changes to working conditions to keep them on side.
• What was the overall state of control in Germany after the Armistice?

  Ebert managed to gain control, but it was weak due to ongoing threats.
• What were the key events leading to the establishment of the Weimar Republic?

  • Abdication of Kaiser Wilhelm II on November 9, 1918
  • Announcement of a republic by Philip Scheidemann
  • Formation of the Council of People's Representatives
  • Signing of the Armistice on November 11, 1918
• What were the main challenges faced by the Weimar Republic in its early years?

  • Political extremism from left and right
  • Economic instability and debt
  • Public unrest and protests
  • Need for legitimacy and support from various groups
• What strategies did Ebert use to maintain control in the Weimar Republic?

  • Retained existing civil servants
  • Communicated with army leaders
  • Engaged with industry leaders
  • Negotiated with trade unions
• Who announced the elections for the new national assembly?

  Frederick Ebert
• When were the elections for the new national assembly held?

  19th of January 1919
• What percentage of eligible voters participated in the elections?

  83%
• Which party won the most votes in the election?

  Socialist Democratic Party
• Where did the first national assembly meet due to unrest in Berlin?

  Weimar
• When was the new constitution of the Weimar Republic agreed upon?

  31st of July 1919