WW1 Increased Rather Than Narrowed Germanys Political Divisions? Flashcards
Introduction
Before war opposition appeared to be on the verge of growing.
SPD had grown rapidly, moderate reform was no longer fully satisfying workers.
The outbreak of the First World War acted as a turning point for Germany’s politics.
What Is The Acronym?
NOTO
At The Start Of The War (Narrowed) - 16
The general consensus on war from inside Germany was good. Met with a sign of relief. Cheering crowds. Kaiser “I know no parties any more, only Germans”. Progress through Belgium, Hindenburg and Ludendroff. Shows how at general level they believed in war and it was approved of.
BUT THERE WERE SMALL CASE OF OPPOSITION.
Small Opposition At Start Of War
14/110 SPD voted/spoke out against war at start.
Radicals I.e. Luxembourg/Liebknect imprisoned.
Can see this is tiny compared to later on.
Turning Point 1916
Year of total attrition and beginning of total war many losses and cold winter.
Switched general consensus against war w/extremes for it.
From 1916 Increased Opposition
May and June: strikers took to Berlin with demand for freedom, bread and peace.
Liebknect was arrested and people strikes over the issue. Reductions in bread rationing pushed people over edge.
See a split between two sides: peace with victory or peace without.
Only those at top want victory (as least effected). Shows clear polarisation in German politics caused by war.
Conclusion
At start political divisions significantly narrowed.
Turning point 1916 increased opposition.
Ended up with two opposite ideas.
Support idea increased political tensions.
