Weimar Republic Flashcards
1
Q
Describe the rights all Germans had in the Weimar Republic. (4)
A
- All German people are to be treated equally by the law.
- No person could be arrested or put in prison unless authorised by the law.
- Homes of German people could not be searched unless authorised by the law.
- The secrecy of correspondence-letters and telephone calls-is absolute.
- Germans could express their opinions in speech, writing, printing or as an imagine.
- Germans have the right to form societies or associations for any reason, as long as they are not for criminal activity.
2
Q
Explain the reasons why the German people were opposed to the Treaty of Versailles. (6)
A
- Loss of Territory-
Germany lost around 13% of there land and 12.5% of the population because of the settlement. - Demilitarisation of RhineLand-
German soldiers and military equipment were banned from the area. - Military Restrictions-
The Germany army reduced to 100,000 men and conscription was banned. - Payment of Reparations-
This resulted in Germany being forced to pay lots of money to Allies. - War Guilt Cause-
Article 231, blamed Germany and their Allies for starting WW1. - Diktat-
When the treaty was being forced on Germany, the Germans had the choice to sign it. - Loss of Colonies-
Germany lost an of their colonies which were to be given to the new League of Nations.
3
Q
What are 2 effects of hyperinflation on Germany?
A
- People burnt paper money as fuel because they couldn’t afford coal.
- People sold their valuable to buy food.
- Prices went up so fact that a days wages would buy one cup of coffee the next day.
4
Q
Explain why the Weimar Republic failed by January 1933.
A
- No clear winner of elections. Although voters like choice, to form a government one political party need more than 50% of the vote. No political party could win enough seats to form a government on its own.
- Article 37 of the constitution allowed the president to rule without the Reichstag in times of emergency. This could potentially be abused.
