Weimar Republic Flashcards
(17 cards)
What was the Weimar Republic?
Democratic government formed in Germany after Kaiser Wilhelm’s abdication in 1918.
When was the Weimar Republic established?
It was established in 1918 in the aftermath of World War I.
What was the Weimar Constitution?
Set of democratic rules including proportional representation and a president elected every 7 years.
One strength of the Weimar Constitution?
It allowed equal voting rights for men and women over 20 and had a democratic parliament.
One weakness of the Weimar Constitution?
Proportional representation led to unstable coalition governments; Article 48 gave the president emergency powers.
What were the main early challenges faced by the Weimar Republic?
- Spartacist uprising (1919)
- Kapp Putsch (1920)
- Economic hardship
- Treaty of Versailles terms.
What was the Treaty of Versailles and why was it unpopular?
- Peace treaty blaming Germany for WWI
- Imposed harsh terms like reparations and army limits.
What caused hyperinflation in 1923?
Germany printed more money to pay reparations and during the Ruhr Crisis, causing currency value to collapse.
What was the Ruhr Crisis?
French and Belgian troops occupied the Ruhr after Germany missed reparations; German workers went on strike.
How did hyperinflation affect Germans?
- Savings became worthless
- Prices soared
- People struggled to buy essentials.
Who benefited from hyperinflation?
People with loans or debts, such as businessmen and landowners.
What was the Dawes Plan (1924)?
US loaned money to help Germany pay reparations and stabilise the economy.
What was the Young Plan (1929)?
Reduced reparations payments and extended the time Germany had to pay.
Who was Gustav Stresemann?
Weimar politician who helped stabilise Germany and improve international relations.
What was the Locarno Pact (1925)?
Agreement where Germany accepted borders with France and Belgium, improving relations.
What was the League of Nations and when did Germany join?
International peace group. Germany joined in 1926, boosting its global status.
What was the Golden Age of Weimar Germany?
Period in late 1920s marked by economic recovery, cultural growth, and relative stability.
