The Weimar Republic Flashcards
1918-1929 (16 cards)
What major political event occurred in Germany at the end of WWI in 1918?
The abdication of the Kaiser and the formation of a new republic
What agreement marked the end of fighting in WWI for Germany?
The Armistice
Name one strength of the Weimar Constitution
Proportional representation ensured fair representation
Name one weakness of the Weimar Constitution.
Article 48 gave the president emergency powers that could undermine democracy
What theory blamed Germany’s defeat in WWI on betrayal by civilians?
The ‘stab in the back’ theory
What treaty was a major cause of resentment towards the Republic?
The Treaty of Versailles
Name two uprisings from the Left and Right against the Republic
Spartacist Uprising (Left), Kapp Putsch (Right)
What economic crisis hit Germany in 1923?
Hyperinflation
Why did France occupy the Ruhr in 1923?
Germany failed to pay reparations
Who played a key role in Germany’s economic recovery in the 1920s?
Gustav Stresemann
What was the Rentenmark?
A new currency introduced to stabilize the economy
What were the Dawes and Young Plans?
Plans to ease reparation payments and bring in U.S. loans
Name two ways Stresemann improved Germany’s foreign relations
The Locarno Pact and joining the League of Nations
How did living standards change in the Weimar Republic during 1924–29?
They improved with better wages, housing, and unemployment insurance
How did the role of women change in Weimar Germany?
More women entered work, gained voting rights, and had greater social freedom
What cultural developments occurred in this period?
Growth in architecture (e.g., Bauhaus), art, and cinema
