How far did the German economy recover by 1939? Flashcards
What does Autarky mean?
The aim for self-sufficiency in the production of food and raw materials, especially when at war.
Why was the banking system a priority for Schacht’s economic policies?
- It had been weakened by the Wall Street Crash and depression.
- The banks also controlled the amount of debt people had.
Why did Schact take control of interest rates?
- If interest rates remained high it would add to debt the government had to pay off.
- By keeping interest rates low they wouldn’t need to pay off as much debt although, it would also mean that people wouldn’t make money on their savings.
Why were local authority debts prioritised?
Because if they were paid off over a longer period of time. Then money would be available to invest in local services which would satisfy the German population.
Who was Hjalmar Schacht?
President of the Reichsbank who directed German economic policy - responsible for the Rentenmark.
What was Hjalmar Schacht a part of?
The economic elite and not a member of Nazi Party.
What did Hjalmar Schacht believe?
In steady growth and a stable currency.
When was the worst of the Depression over by?
1933.
What was assistance for farming and small businesses in Schacht’s economic policies designed to do?
Stimulate growth and reward loyal supporters.
Why were tariffs put on imported goods?
To protect German farmers.
What did the Reich Food Estate offer to support what?
Subsidies to support agriculture.
What did the Reich Entailed Farm Law do?
Debts were reduced offering land ownership security (debts were reduced by tax concessions and lower interest rates).
What else did Schacht’s economic policy assistance for farming and small businesses do?
- Allowances to encourage rehiring of domestic servants.
- Grants for house repairs.
What does tariff mean?
A customs duty or tax levied on imports of merchandise goods.
What does subsidies mean?
A type of government expenditure for individuals and households, as well as businesses with the aim of stabilizing the economy.
Who was state investment started under?
Von Papen.
What was the Reich Labour Service (RAD) in Schacht’s economic policies?
- Employ 18-25yr olds (members not counted in unemployment figures.)
- Involved 6 months of unpaid work, mainly in military construction projects.
When was the compulsory military conscription?
1935.
(5 points)
What else did state investment involve in Schacht’s economic policies?
- Reforestation.
- Land reclamation.
- Motorisation (developing a vehicle industry).
- Infrastructure.
- Building projects (housing sector and public buildings).
What was the impact of state investment under Schacht from 1933-1936?
Triple public investment & increase government expenditure by 70%.
What was the impact of state investment under Schacht on employment?
Increase in employment:
- Jan 1932 = 6 million.
- 1936 = 1.6 million.
- By 1936 the economic recovery was well advanced and then emphasis began to turn even more towards rearmament.
What was the aim of Bilateral Treaties under Schacht’s New Plan of 1934?
Promote trade and save foreign exchange, mainly with SE European countries.
How did Schacht improve state investment?
Kept taxes relatively high and encouraged private savings in state savings banks.
What were the Mefo Bills under Schacht’s New Plan of 1934?
Special government money bills (like a credit note) they were guaranteed by the govt. and were held for up to 5 years at 4% interest.
What was the Bilateral Treaties under Schacht’s New Plan of 1934?
- Barter agreements were set up rather than imports being paid with money.
- The Soviet Union agreement was set up in 1935.
What was the Regulation of the Reichsmark currency under Schacht’s New Plan of 1934?
Germany agreed to purchase raw materials from all countries it traded with if Reichsmarks were used to buy back German goods ~ protected their income.
What is a benefit of Mefo Bills under Schacht’s New Plan of 1934?
They disguised and delayed govt. spending.
From 1935 onwards, Hitler became impatient for what and what did this lead to?
Rearmament and to be war ready in 4-5 years much faster than businessmen and economists had expected ~ economic debate: guns vs. butter.