Abdication and Armistice

• How many German troops were killed during World War I?

  2 million
• How many German troops were wounded during World War I?

  4 million
• What financial impact did World War I have on Germany?

  It caused spiraling debt
• By 1918, how much was Germany's debt compared to 1914?

  Three times the debt
• What action did the British Navy take against Germany in 1918?

  Blocked German trade routes
• What was the estimated death toll from hunger in Germany due to food shortages?

  750,000 people
• What events occurred in St. Garten and Munich as a result of food shortages?

  Protests and riots took place
• What political ideas gained popularity in Germany after World War I?

  Communist ideas of workers' councils
• When did the Russian Revolution occur in relation to World War I?

  One year before
• What was the general sentiment in Germany regarding the war by November 1918?

  Protests and strikes were widespread
• What significant event occurred on the 9th of November 1918?

  The Kaiser abdicated
• Who was the Kaiser of Germany during World War I?

  Kaiser Wilhelm II
• What did the people of Berlin demand after the Kaiser abdicated?

  Establishment of a communist government
• Who announced the abdication of the Kaiser to the crowds?

  Philip Scheidemann
• What was the role of the Council of People's Representatives?

  To lead the country until a Constitution was written
• What was the date when the Armistice was signed?

  11th of November 1918
• What was the public perception of the Armistice among many Germans?

  Seen as a betrayal of sacrifices
• What steps did Ebert take to maintain order in Germany?

  Kept existing civil servants and communicated with leaders
• Why did Ebert keep existing civil servants in power?

  They understood Germany's needs
• What challenges did Ebert face after the Armistice?

  Keeping support from people and leaders
• What was the outcome of Ebert's actions in the months following the Armistice?

  He managed to gain control of Germany
• What remained a threat to the Weimar Republic?

  Extreme political parties and public unrest
• What were the key events leading to the abdication of Kaiser Wilhelm II?

  • Protests and riots in Germany
  • Navy rebellions in Kiel and Hamburg
  • Loss of support from military leaders
  • Calls for abdication on November 9, 1918
• What were Ebert's strategies to maintain control after the Armistice?

  • Retained existing civil servants
  • Communicated with army leaders
  • Engaged with industry leaders
  • Negotiated with trade unions