Political and Governmental Change Flashcards
What was the title given to pre-Weimar Germany?
Imperial Germany / The Second Reich (1871-1918) under the rule of Kaiser Wilhelm II until he abdicated.
Who were the growing w/c unhappy with during WW1?
The conservative political system of the Second Reich and the power of the Kaiser.
Who did the Generals of WW1 work to shift the blame onto?
A new liberal left-wing government which would become the Weimar government.
What was happening to the German army towards the end of WW1?
The army became exhausted and outstretched - defeat was likely.
What did German sailors do towards the end of WW1? What was the result back home?
They mutinied, aware of Germany’s impending defeat. This led to further riots and disturbances across Germany. The government had lost control.
How had WW1 effected Germany - politically, socially and economically?
- Increased political polarization
- Standards of living had declined
- Had caused inflation
-> the nation had become more divided by the end of the war and revolution seemed likely.
Why did Kaiser Wilhelm II abdicate in 1918?
He feared a violent revolution and the political parties were calling for the creation of a democratic republic.
Who was the first President of the Weimar Republic?
Friedrich Ebert, leader of the SPD (1918-25).
How did Ebert’s first action end WW1?
He signed the armistice agreement, bringing an end to the war.
Which position was head of state in the Weimar Republic?
President
What was the role of the President in the WR?
Head of state and armed forces, who runs foreign affairs. Does not take part in day-to-day government.
What power did the President have over the rest of the political system?
He could choose and appoint a chancellor (given the rest of the Reichstag agreed) and had the power to dismiss the Reichstag and call new elections.
How often was a new president elected in WR?
Every 7 years
What did Article 48 do?
It allowed the president to have the power to rule by presidential decree in the event of an emergency. This meant the president could pass laws without consulting the Chancellor or Reichstag.
Which article allowed the president to rule by presidential decree?
Article 48
What was the role of the Reichstag?
Passed the laws of the country.
How did votes for parties work in WR?
Proportional representation - parties got one seat for every 60,000 votes cast on them.