‘The Weimar Constitution was the main reason why the Weimar Republic was unstable in the years 1918-23 Flashcards
(15 cards)
What voting system did the Weimar Constitution introduce that led to political fragmentation?
Proportional representation, which made it easy for small and radical parties to gain seats, causing unstable coalition governments.
What was Article 48 and why was it controversial?
It allowed the president to rule by decree during emergencies, undermining democracy. It was used over 200 times, paving the way for authoritarianism.
How long did most constitutional governments last during 1919–1923?
No longer than 18 months.
What was the Spartacist Uprising (1919)?
A communist revolt led by Rosa Luxemburg and Karl Liebknecht, crushed violently by the Freikorps.
What did the Kapp Putsch (1920) involve?
A right-wing coup attempt led by Dr. Wolfgang Kapp and Freikorps troops. It failed due to a general strike by civil servants.
Why were uprisings more damaging than constitutional flaws?
They revealed deep opposition to democracy from both left and right, and showed the government’s weakness and reliance on others.
What triggered the occupation of the Ruhr in 1923?
Germany defaulted on reparation payments due to financial difficulties.
How did Germany respond to the occupation of the Ruhr?
Through passive resistance and printing money to support striking workers, leading to hyperinflation.
What was the value of 1 USD in German marks by November 1923?
4.2 trillion marks.
How was the economy stabilized in 1923?
The Rentenmark was introduced by Gustav Stresemann, followed by the Dawes Plan (1924).
What was Article 231 of the Treaty of Versailles?
The war guilt clause that blamed Germany for WWI, deeply humiliating the nation.
What conspiracy theories damaged the Weimar Republic?
The ‘stab-in-the-back’ myth and branding politicians as ‘November Criminals.’
Who was Matthias Erzberger and what happened to him?
A politician who signed the armistice; assassinated by right-wing extremists in 1921.
Was the constitution the main cause of instability from 1919–1923?
No, external factors like uprisings, economic crises, and nationalist resentment played a larger role in undermining democracy.
What progressive aspects did the Weimar Constitution include?
Over 62 fundamental rights and universal suffrage, including women’s right to vote.
