History Paper 2 Flashcards
(50 cards)
What was the political condition of the Weimar Republic?
The Weimar Republic was weak
It faced numerous challenges, including political extremism and economic instability.
What did Article 48 of the Weimar Constitution allow the government to do?
It allowed the government to make ‘emergency’ decisions without consulting the Reichstag
This provision was often exploited to bypass democratic processes.
What was the Kapp Putsch?
An attempt to overthrow the Weimar Republic in 1920
This coup highlighted the instability of the Weimar government.
What was the Spartacist Revolution?
A communist coup that occurred in 1919
It was part of the larger wave of political unrest in post-World War I Germany.
What was the Beer Hall Putsch?
Hitler’s attempt to overthrow the Weimar Republic in 1923
This failed coup led to Hitler’s imprisonment and the writing of Mein Kampf.
What socioeconomic factors contributed to the rise of the Nazis?
Social division, increased unemployment during the Great Depression, and support found in both rural and urban areas
The Nazis capitalized on societal frustrations and economic despair.
What was the impact of the Great Depression on Germany?
Unemployment rates soared to 6 million people
This economic crisis created fertile ground for extremist political movements.
What cultural factors allowed authoritarian control to gain support in Germany?
A lack of democratic sentiments and the liberalism of the Weimar Republic
These factors made the populace more receptive to the Nazi ideology.
What role did propaganda play in Hitler’s rise to power?
Hitler aimed his propaganda at the youth and used media to spread his message
Joseph Goebbels was a key figure in the Nazi propaganda machine.
What was the Reichstag Fire and its significance?
A fire in 1933 blamed on communists, leading to their expulsion from parliament
This event allowed the Nazis to reduce opposition significantly.
What was the Enabling Act of 1933?
It allowed Hitler to take full control over Germany without consulting the Reichstag
This act marked a key step in the consolidation of Nazi power.
What was the Night of Long Knives?
A purge in 1934 where Hitler eliminated opposition within his party
This event solidified Hitler’s control over the Nazi Party.
What was the significance of the Gestapo?
The secret police established in 1933 to maintain conformity within Germany
The Gestapo played a critical role in suppressing dissent.
What was Mao’s economic strategy during the Great Leap Forward?
To increase agricultural output through communes and collectivization
This policy aimed to rapidly industrialize China but led to widespread famine.
What was the Hundred Flowers Campaign?
A campaign in 1957 where Mao invited criticism but executed many critiques
This campaign demonstrated Mao’s intolerance for dissent.
What were the key components of Gorbachev’s reforms?
Perestroika (economic reforms) and Glasnost (increased transparency)
These reforms aimed to revitalize the Soviet economy and society.
What was the significance of the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (1991)?
Both the USSR and the US agreed to reduce their stock of nuclear weapons
This treaty marked a significant step towards de-escalating nuclear tensions.
What was the purpose of the Marshall Plan?
To provide $15 billion in aid to countries at risk of falling under communist influence
This plan aimed to stabilize European economies after World War II.
What was the Atlantic Charter?
A statement of war aims between America and the UK in 1941
It outlined the principles for post-war peace and cooperation.
What were salami tactics?
Soviet strategies to gain control of Eastern Europe without holding free elections
This method involved gradual encroachments on political freedoms.
What was the significance of the Iron Curtain speech?
It publicly condemned the USSR, increasing tensions during the Cold War
Churchill’s speech illustrated the ideological divide between East and West.
What was the outcome of the Korean War for China?
Mao sent troops to Korea, gaining aid from Russia and demonstrating strength
This conflict solidified Mao’s leadership and the PRC’s role in global politics.
What was the primary cause of the nuclear accident in the USSR?
Faulty maintenance of nuclear bases
Who were the key leaders that contributed to the ending of the Cold War?
Reagan and Gorbachev
