The Weimar republic 1918-29

• When did the First World War end?

  1918
• What was the impact of the First World War on Germany?

  Germany suffered two million troop deaths and over four million wounded.
• How much did Germany's debts increase after the First World War?

  From 50 billion marks to 150 billion marks.
• How many people starved to death due to food shortages in Germany after the war?

  Over 750,000
• What actions did many people resort to due to the devastating effects of the war?

  Rioting and looting
• Who became the first German president of a republic?

  Friedrich Ebert
• What happened on 9 November 1918 in Germany?

  The German Republic was demanded.
• What significant event occurred on 11 November 1918?

  Revolution erupted and the Kaiser fled to Holland.
• What was the first major decision of Ebert's new Republic?

  Signing the armistice on 11 November.
• What became a burden for Germany after the armistice?

  The terms of the Treaty of Versailles.
• What were the strengths of the Weimar Constitution?

  • Proportional representation for small parties
  • Women allowed to vote
  • Voting age reduced to 21
  • No one group could hold too much power
  • Presidential elections every seven years
  • Central government more powerful
• What were the weaknesses of the Weimar Constitution?

  • Coalition governments were unstable
  • Weak government during crises
  • Article 48 allowed president to bypass Reichstag
  • Lack of popularity among the people
• Why was the Treaty of Versailles unpopular in Germany?

  It imposed harsh reparations and land losses.
• Who led the Spartacist movement?

  Rosa Luxemburg and Karl Liebknecht
• What was the role of the Freikorps during the Spartacist Revolt?

  They were used to suppress the revolt.
• What was the Kapp Putsch?

  A right-wing coup attempt in March 1920.
• How did the Weimar government respond to the Kapp Putsch?

  They organized a general strike to stop it.
• What was a significant effect of hyperinflation in Germany?

  People could not afford essentials like bread.
• Who suffered the most from hyperinflation?

  People with fixed or monthly incomes, like pensioners.
• What were the positive effects of hyperinflation in Germany?

  • Farmers benefited from higher food prices
  • Some could pay off loans easily
  • Fixed rents became very cheap
  • Foreign visitors found goods inexpensive
• What was the main reason for the vulnerability of the German economy between 1923 and 1929?

  Reliance on American loans for economic growth.
• What was the Locarno Pact of 1925?

  An agreement to respect borders with France and Belgium.
• Why was the Kellogg-Briand Pact of 1928 significant for Germany?

  It showed Germany was equal to major powers.
• What were the changes for women in Germany between 1924 and 1929?

  • Women gained the right to vote and stand for election
  • Increased opportunities in education and professions
  • Decline in women working after marriage
  • Traditional values challenged by "new women"
• What cultural movements emerged in Germany between 1924 and 1929?

  • Rise of Expressionism in art and cinema
  • Bauhaus school challenged traditional architecture
  • New experimental approaches in various art forms
• How did the new Weimar culture challenge traditional attitudes in Germany?

  It promoted experimentation and modern values in art and society.