Lesson 5: hyperinflation and French occupation of Ruhr

• What were the two main challenges faced by Weimar Germany in 1923?

  French occupation of the Ruhr and hyperinflation
• What was the Spartacist Revolt?

  A failed communist uprising in Germany
• What was the Kapp Putsch?

  A coup attempt by the Freikorps in 1920
• What did the French occupation of the Ruhr begin?

  In 1921
• Why did the French occupy the Ruhr?

  To enforce reparations from the Treaty of Versailles
• How did the French occupation of the Ruhr affect Germany's economy?

  It crippled Germany's iron, coal, and steel production
• What was hyperinflation?

  Rapid price increases due to economic instability
• What caused hyperinflation in Germany during 1923?

  Fewer goods and higher demand
• How did the Weimar government respond to hyperinflation?

  By printing more money
• What were the effects of hyperinflation on daily life in Germany?

  Normal living became impossible for many
• How did people cope with hyperinflation in terms of payment?

  Workers were paid twice a day
• What unusual method did some shops use during hyperinflation?

  Refused money unless it was wrapped
• What was a significant consequence of hyperinflation for the rich and middle classes?

  They lost the value of their savings
• Who benefited from hyperinflation in Germany?

  Foreign visitors who found goods cheap
• How did Germans feel about foreign visitors during hyperinflation?

  They hated being taken advantage of