Empire to Democracy: 12 political, economic and social condition by 1929

Question 1

how did the First World War impact Germany politically?

Answer 1

political authority was transferred to the German military leaders
defeat led to the creation of a civilian constitutional government
after a brief period of ‘revolution’ where the Kaiser abdicated, anew republic was created
new system of universal suffrage and proportional representation

Question 2

how did the economy fare post 1914?

Answer 2

economic rollercoaster
already heavily in debt, ToV worsened that
French invasion in the Ruhr
hyperinflation 1923
Dawes Plan allowed for foreign loans
1924-29 - economy appeared more stable
agriculture still struggled
balance of payments remained high 1300 million Reichsmarks between 1924-30
restrictions of the Dawes plan prevented lowered interest rates and the flooding of foreign short-term loans left Germany in a precarious position

Question 3

what was the social condition of Germany like by 1929?

Answer 3

some new freedoms - trade unions, civil rights , welfare provisions, women’s vote
clear distinction between classes
military remained influential
living standards varied but generally rose
some experienced a more comfortable consumer lifestyle