The German economy 1890-1929 Flashcards
What is free trade?
Having no duties/tariffs on foreign imports/exports (supported by National Liberals)
What is Protectionism?
Introducing duties, especially on exports, to encourage consumers to buy home produced goods (popular amongst most European countries at that time)
What reasons were there for Bismarck abandoning free trade (and therefore his alliance with the National liberals)
- In the case of war, being self-sufficient and not reliant on imports would be an advantage.
- Tariffs provided the Reich with much needed revenue.
- Bismarck never ideologically aligned with the National liberals on much anyway.
What manufacturing pressure group had formed supporting protectionism?
The Central association of German Manufacturers
What was Bismarck growing increasingly concerned about and who’s support did he need to stop it?
Socialism - needed support of the Conservatives and the Zentrum as he couldn’t rely on the National Liberals to oppose it.
Did the Junkers want free trade or protectionism?
The Junker class wanted protectionism because they relied on agriculture for much of their income.
When did Germany have an economic crash that left it weak in the 1890s.
1873-4
What were the positive impacts of the period of economic growth prior to the second world war?
- Increased employment
and literacy rates. - Germany catching up with Britain and America in strength.
- Bankers willing to give high loans due to strong economy.
What were the negative impacts of the period of economic growth prior to the second world war?
- Greater class divides
- Environmentally destructive (high pollution)
- decreased life expectancy
What were key reasons for Germany’s economic growth prior to WW1?
- German geography; flat terrain for railways and large rivers for barges.
-Germany had the best elementary education system, with enrolment in universities doubling between 1890 and 1914.
-individuals e.g. Karl Benz, Zeppelin (airships)
In what way was there success in regulating a war economy long-term?
In the short-term, munition production did increase.
In what way was there failure in regulating a war economy long-term?
- by 1915 the government budget and food provisions had eroded German ability to fight.
- The German government were already in debt during peacetime.
-Industries were not nationalised.
How did the government finance the war?
Short term loans and printing more money
Did Germany have a good education system in this period?
Yes - it was deemed the best in the world, with excellent higher education developing technical skills
In what period did enrolement in universities double?
1890-1914
