Creation and collapse of the Weimar Republic, 1918–33 Flashcards
creation of a republic, 1918–19; overcoming challenges to the democratic constitution, 1918–29; collapse of democracy, 1930–33. (38 cards)
What extraordinary decision did General Ludendorff make in September 1918?
He persuaded the Kaiser to transform the Second Reich into a virtual parliamentary democracy by handing over power to a civilian government.
What was the primary reason Ludendorff urged for an immediate armistice?
He hoped the new civilian government would be able to get better peace terms from the Allies.
What was Ludendorff’s cynical hope regarding the new civilian government?
He hoped it would be blamed for Germany’s defeat, preserving the reputation of the generals.
What did Ludendorff express to his military staff about the new government?
‘Let them now conclude the peace that has to be negotiated. Let them eat the broth they have prepared for us.’
What was the context for the birth of democracy in Germany?
Ludendorff’s manoeuvre, the myth of the ‘stab in the back,’ and the shock of defeat.
True or False: Ludendorff’s decision to hand over power was aimed at fostering a stable democracy in Germany.
False
Fill in the blank: Ludendorff’s manoeuvre aimed to preserve the reputations of the _______.
generals
What was the relationship between the Reichstag and the new civilian government?
The new civilian government had the support of the Reichstag.
What was set up to provide temporary leadership until an election for a new National Assembly was held?
Council of People’s Representatives
Who approved the Council of People’s Representatives and what groups were part of it?
Approved by an assembly elected by Berlin workers and soldiers. It contained members of the SPD and USPD
What was the simple explanation for Germany’s defeat after World War I?
The German army was ‘stabbed in the back’ by unpatriotic and weak politicians
This narrative suggested that the army could have won the war if not for internal dissent.
What event marked the culmination of unrest in Germany in November 1918?
The revolution when the ‘November criminals’ seized power
This led to the declaration of a republic.
What did the new civilian government do that was criticized?
Arranged an unnecessary armistice and accepted humiliating Versailles peace terms
This was seen as a betrayal by many Germans.
How did the ‘stab in the back’ theory affect the Weimar Republic?
It was used to criticize the democratic Weimar Republic
The republic became associated with Germany’s defeat and the humiliation of the peace treaty.
What was the impact of the ‘stab in the back’ belief on the Weimar Republic?
It weakened the prospects for Weimar democracy
Many Germans held a distorted view of the war’s reasons, which fueled hostility towards the republic.
True or False: The belief in the ‘stab in the back’ theory was widely accepted in Germany.
True
Despite being a distorted view, it gained significant traction among the populace.
Fill in the blank: The idea of a ‘stab in the back’ was a _______ view of the reasons for Germany’s defeat.
[distorted]
This distortion played a crucial role in shaping public sentiment against the Weimar Republic.
What was one of the main reasons the ‘stab in the back’ theory was significant?
It influenced public perception of the Weimar Republic and its legitimacy
The narrative shaped how people viewed their government and its actions post-war.
What year was the Z (Centre Party) formed?
1870
The Z party was established to protect Catholic interests.
What political stance did the Z (Centre Party) generally align with?
Usually to the right of the DDP
The Z party was in favor of political reform and defended the Weimar Republic until 1930.
What was the main support base for the Z (Centre Party)?
Catholic workers & middle class
The Z party took part in Weimar governments up to 1932.
What does DNVP stand for?
German National People’s Party
It was formed in 1918 to protect the interests of the land-owning class.
What was the DNVP’s stance on the Weimar Republic?
Rejected the Republic, the Treaty of Versailles and democracy
Most support came from Junkers and some urban lower middle class.
What does DDP stand for?
German Democratic Party
A left-wing liberal party formed in 1918.
