WW1 and Defeat: Germany and the growth of democracy Flashcards
In 1914 most Germans were patriotic. They supported the war believing Germany could win it.
Patriotism
by 1915-16, as the war continued, protests began with 500 people but increased to 10,000 wanting an end to the war
War weariness
In 1917 a communist revolution led to the Kaiser’s cousin, Tsar Nicholas being overthrown
Russian Revolution
By 1918 the Germans were fed up with the war. Many blamed the Kaiser and his government for the hardships they suffered causing political unrest.
Political instability
By 1918 the German generals believed they could not win the war. General Ludendorff advised the Kaiser to make the country more democratic so they would be treated less harshly by the victors.
losing the war
The Kaiser gave the Reichstag some of his powers and allowed the main political parties to form a new government but protests continued.
Democratic measures
On 28th October 1918 the Germany navy refused to follow orders and go to sea.
Mutiny
Soldiers sent to deal with the mutiny joined the sailors, as did workers. Within 6 days the workers were ruling towns and cities all over Germany
Workers council
On 9th November, the Kaiser gave up his throne and left Germany taking all of his wealth with him
Abdication
Was the leader of the SPD, the largest party, he formed a government which promised to hold elections and end the war
Friedrich Ebert
The British navy had blockaded the German ports preventing food from getting in. The Germans were starving.
Naval Blockade
On 11th November 1918 the war ended when the Germans surrendered.
the Armistice
Many Germans refused to believe that they had been defeated as the allied armies had not marched through berlin. They blamed the new government for surrendering unnecessarily
November Criminals
