the weimar republic

All Germans had equal right to vote. All women over 20 could vote.

Proportional representation: many political parties could win seats. Sometimes over 20 parties would argue over one single issue

Many people didn't agree with this democratic system such as older army generals and members of the upper class (right wing circle). They wanted the ‘good old days’ when Kaiser ruled German. This lead to extremists parties gaining new supporters

Politicians who lost the war were known as the ‘November Criminals’

The president controlled the army. In a crisis he could rule without the support of the Reichstag to issue emergency laws known as Article 48

The chancellor is usually chosen from the party with the most votes at an election

The Reichstag discussed laws. Parties could pass laws that were popular to win elections