‘The years 1924–29 were not ‘Golden Years’ for Weimar Germany.’ Flashcards
(20 cards)
What percentage of voters supported pro-democratic parties by 1928?
76%
What was the Nazi party’s share of seats in 1928?
2.6%
How many times did Hindenburg use Article 48?
109 times out of 205 total uses
What was the main weakness of Weimar coalitions from 1923–29?
They struggled to govern effectively due to ideological differences—8 different coalition governments collapsed over minor disputes.
What role did Paul von Hindenburg play in Weimar’s stability?
His election in 1925 reassured many due to his military background, despite his authoritarian leanings, he upheld the democratic constitution.
What plan in 1924 helped stabilize the economy?
The Dawes Plan – paused reparations and loaned Germany 800 million marks.
By what percentage did exports increase by 1929?
40%
What were the main sectors that expanded during the Golden Years?
Chemical and manufacturing industries
What economic issue persisted despite growth?
Agricultural unemployment, with over 1.5 million unemployed even before 1929.
Why did Stresemann call the Dawes Plan an ‘economic armistice’?
Because it made Germany economically dependent on the U.S., making it vulnerable.
What was the significance of the Locarno Pact (1925)?
Germany accepted new western borders and agreed to demilitarize the Rhineland, easing tensions with France.
What was the Kellogg-Briand Pact (1928)?
An agreement between 61 countries to settle conflicts diplomatically and avoid war.
What did Germany join in 1926 as a result of improved diplomacy?
The League of Nations
What did DNVP oppose in 1929, gaining 5.8 million signatures against it?
The Young Plan – which extended reparations payments.
What art movement reflected post-war realism in Germany?
New Objectivity
What did George Grosz criticize through his artwork?
The hypocrisy of the bourgeoisie and the glorification of war eg shut up and serve
What societal change did the ‘New Woman’ represent?
Increased independence, presence in politics, and defiance of traditional gender roles
How many women were in the Reichstag during the Golden Years?
Over 41 women
What was the Institute for Sexual Science?
A progressive institution founded by Magnus Hirschfeld advocating for LGBTQ+ rights
Why was cultural progress limited to urban areas?
Rural and conservative populations rejected liberal changes as immoral or destabilizing.
