Emergence of Nazi Germany

Why was the Treaty of Versailles called a 'Diktat' by Germans?

Because it was a harsh, non-negotiable agreement Germany was forced to sign, or face invasion.

What was Article 231 of the Treaty of Versailles?

It was the 'War Guilt Clause,' making Germany accept full responsibility for WWI.

What were Germany’s territorial losses under the Treaty of Versailles?

Alsace-Lorraine returned to France, Polish Corridor separated East Prussia, Saar given to League of Nations for 15 years, Rhineland demilitarized zone, Anschluss forbidden.

What were Germany’s military restrictions under the Treaty of Versailles?

Army limited to 100,000 men, no conscription, no tanks, submarines, or air force, and only 6 battleships.

How much did Germany have to pay in reparations?

6.6 billion pounds (132 billion gold marks).

Who were the 'November Criminals'?

German politicians who signed the armistice ending WWI, blamed for Germany’s defeat. used to depict them as traitors who surrendered rather than fighting on, and it played a significant role in the political discourse and propaganda utilized by right-wing movements, including the Nazis, to foster resentment towards the Weimar government. Matthias Erzberger

What was the 'stab-in-the-back' myth?

The belief that Germany’s military was betrayed by politicians, socialists, and Jews, not defeated in battle.

What was the main cause of hyperinflation in 1923?

Germany printed excessive money to pay reparations and fund workers during the Ruhr Crisis.

What was the Ruhr Crisis of 1923?

France and Belgium invaded the Ruhr after Germany missed reparations; Germans responded with passive resistance.

How did Stresemann solve hyperinflation?

Introduced the Rentenmark and negotiated the Dawes Plan for US loans.

What was the Dawes Plan (1924)?

A plan where the US loaned Germany 800 million marks and restructured reparations.

What was the Spartacist Uprising (1919)?

January 5 to January 12, 1919A communist revolt: Karl Liebknecht and Rosa Luxemburg
sought to establish a communist regime in Germany following the end of World War I and the abdication of Kaiser Wilhelm II
crushed by the Freikorps.

What was the Kapp Putsch (1920)?

A right-wing coup attempt that failed due to a general strike. led by right-wing elements including Wolfgang Kapp and former soldiers of the Freikorps. The coup aimed to overthrow the Weimar Republic and establish an autocratic government. The immediate trigger for the Putsch was the Weimar government's decision to disband the Freikorps units, which were paramilitary groups composed mainly of German World War I veterans. In response, Kapp and his followers seized control of Berlin, forcing the Weimar government to flee. However, the coup was ultimately unsuccessful due to widespread resistance from the German working class, who organized a general strike that paralyzed the city and shut down key services and industries. This general strike demonstrated the power of organized labor and highlighted the deep divisions within German society during this tumultuous period

What was the Beer Hall Putsch (1923)?

Hitler’s failed coup attempt; he was imprisoned and wrote Mein Kampf.

What were the key appeals of Nazi ideology?

Anti-communism, Nationalism, Volksgemeinschaft, Economic promises.

How did Nazi propaganda help their rise to power?

Targeted groups, used media, and presented Hitler as a savior.

What role did the SA (Brownshirts) play?

They protected Nazi rallies, intimidated opponents, and disrupted rival political parties.

Why did industrialists support the Nazis?

They feared communism and believed Hitler would protect their businesses.

What was Brüning’s economic policy (1930–32)?

Deflationary policies that worsened the Great Depression.

What happened in the 1932 presidential election?

Hindenburg defeated Hitler, but Nazi popularity grew.

How did Von Papen contribute to Hitler's rise?

Convinced Hindenburg to appoint Hitler as Chancellor, believing he could control him.

When did Hitler become Chancellor?

January 30, 1933.

Who was Paul von Hindenburg?

German President who appointed Hitler Chancellor in 1933.

Who was Franz von Papen?

Former Chancellor who helped Hitler rise to power.

Who was Heinrich Brüning?

Chancellor from 1930-32; his economic policies worsened the Depression.

Who was Joseph Goebbels?

Nazi Minister of Propaganda.

Who was Ernst Röhm?

SA leader executed during the Night of the Long Knives.

What does Ian Kershaw argue about Hitler's rise?

Economic crisis was the key factor enabling Hitler’s success.

What does Richard Evans argue about propaganda?

Propaganda was effective but relied on economic desperation.

What does A.J.P. Taylor argue about the Weimar Republic?

Its failures created the perfect storm for Nazi rule.

What does Alan Bullock say about Hitler's rise?

It was a mix of opportunity, timing, and manipulation.