After WW1 Flashcards
By how much did the German mark lose its value between 1913 and 1918, and why?
The German mark lost 75% of its value, largely due to financing the war through overprinting currency and loans, which led to high inflation.
How much did World War I cost Germany, and how was it financed?
The war cost Germany £8.394 billion, primarily financed by overprinting money and taking loans, causing severe inflation.
What realization did German generals on the Western Front come to in late 1918?
They realized that defeat was imminent as they were losing supplies and manpower, and their position on the Western Front was deteriorating.
What did General Ludendorff urge in response to Germany’s imminent defeat?
He urged for an armistice and recommended the Kaiser’s abdication, pushing for a civilian-led parliamentary government to avoid military accountability for the surrender.
What was the ‘stab-in-the-back’ myth, and why did Ludendorff propagate it?
The ‘stab-in-the-back’ myth falsely blamed Germany’s civilian government for the surrender, allowing military leaders like Ludendorff to avoid responsibility for the defeat.
Why did Germany’s allies, such as Bulgaria, request an armistice by September 1918?
They sought an armistice due to their deteriorating military situations and growing pressure on the Central Powers.
How did Kaiser Wilhelm II lose the support of the German army?
Generals Ludendorff and Groener advised the Kaiser to abdicate, indicating that the army would no longer support him.
What did Prince Max von Baden announce on November 9, 1918, and what was the outcome?
He announced the Kaiser’s abdication (without the Kaiser’s consent) and later handed the chancellorship to Friedrich Ebert of the SPD.
Who were the key left-wing groups advocating for change in post-war Germany?
Key left-wing groups included the Independent Socialists (USPD), Spartacists (KPD/Communists), and Worker and Soldier Councils.
