Germany in the Aftermath of WW1 and the Rise of the Nazis

These flashcards cover key concepts, events, and terminology from the lecture on Germany's post-WWI situation and the rise of the Nazi Party.

Weimar Republic

The democratic government established in Germany after World War I, marked by political instability and challenges from both left and right factions.

Article 48

Provision in the Weimar Constitution that allowed the President to rule by decree in times of emergency.

Spartacus League

A socialist group that attempted to overthrow the Weimar Republic in 1919.

Kapp Putsch

A failed coup in 1920 by nationalist forces in Germany seeking to overturn the Weimar Republic.

Hyperinflation

Economic situation in 1923 where the value of the German mark plummeted, leading to extreme price increases.

Mein Kampf

Autobiographical book written by Adolf Hitler while he was imprisoned, outlining his political ideology and plans for Germany.

Volksgemeinschaft

Concept of a 'people's community' promoted by the Nazis to unify all ethnic Germans in a national community.

Führerprinzip

The leadership principle that emphasized complete loyalty to the Führer (leader), whose will was deemed the ultimate law.

Reichstag Fire Decree

Emergency decree issued in February 1933, suspending civil liberties and allowing for the arrest of political opponents.

Gleichschaltung

The process of consolidating power and enforcing Nazi ideology across all aspects of German society and government.

Night of the Long Knives

The 1934 purge of the SA leadership and other political opponents to consolidate Hitler's power.

German Labor Front (DAF)

The Nazi-run trade union that replaced independent unions and enforced labor policies in accordance with Nazi ideology.

Aryanization

The process of excluding Jews and non-Aryans from professional, economic, and social life in Germany.

Gestapo

The secret police of Nazi Germany, responsible for political repression and maintaining state security.

Polycratic

Describing a system where multiple, competing authorities exist, applicable to the structure of the Nazi regime.