The Ruhr

• When did Germany begin to pay reparations?

  In 1922
• What event was triggered by Germany missing a reparations payment in 1922?

  French and Belgian occupation of the Ruhr Valley
• What economic issue did Germany face as a result of the missed reparations payment?

  Hyperinflation
• What happened in November 1922 regarding Germany's reparations payment?

  Germany defaulted on its reparations payment
• Why did the French believe Germany could make the reparations payment?

  They thought Germany was choosing not to pay
• What was Germany's argument regarding its ability to pay reparations?

  They argued they could not afford to pay
• What action did France and Belgium take in response to Germany's default?

  They sent troops into the Ruhr Valley
• What was the aim of the French and Belgian troops in the Ruhr Valley?

  To confiscate industrial goods as reparations
• What policy did the German government order workers to follow in response to the occupation?

  Passive resistance
• What did the German government do for workers who followed the policy of passive resistance?

  Continued to pay their wages
• How did the policy of passive resistance affect the German economy during the occupation?

  It contributed to hyperinflation and economic decline