Workbook: Impact of the depression

Question 1

What was the impact of the Depression on Weimar gov?

Answer 1

• The grand coalition collapsed as parties disagreed over unemployment benefits
• Subsequent gov lacked Reichstag support. There was 4 chancellors between 1928-33

Question 2

What evidence is there is that the German political system became more authoritarian after 1929?

Answer 2

Chancellor Bruning and Von Papen relied extensively on emergency presidential decrees rather than on parliamentary gov. For example, there were 44 emergency decrees in 1931 (and only 5 in 1930)

Question 3

What evidence is there of increase in politically-motivated violence?

Answer 3

During July 1832 election there was 461 riots in Prussia which a number of people died. Street violence added to air of instability in Germany and served to increase people’s discontent

Question 4

Name 3 reasons why Weimar democracy failed

Answer 4

1. From the start, there was hostility from German elites/establishments (e.g. judiciary, army, civil service) who worked to undermine Weimar democracy
2. Ongoing economic problems - inherited huge cost of WW1, reparations and expensive new welfare benefits set out in the Weimar constitution. Problems in the economy were disguised rather than solved under Stresmann
3. Limited popular support. There was never total acceptance of, and confidence in, its democratic system and values. Weimar was associated with the humiliation of TOV and reparations.