Course Content
Background Information on 1870s European Powers
Before 1900, Europe was dominated by powerful empires such as the British, French, Austro-Hungarian, Russian, and Ottoman Empires. The period was marked by industrialization, imperial expansion, nationalism, and frequent political rivalries that set the stage for major conflicts.
0/2
Causes and Results of the First World War
World War I (1914–1918) was a global conflict triggered by political tensions and alliances among European powers. It caused massive loss of life and led to significant political and territorial changes worldwide.
0/8
League of Nations
The League of Nations was an international organization formed after World War I to maintain peace and prevent future conflicts. It aimed to resolve disputes through dialogue and promote cooperation among nations.
0/7
Interwar Period
The interwar period refers to the years between World War I and World War II (1918–1939). It was marked by political instability, economic difficulties such as the Great Depression, and the rise of totalitarian regimes in countries like Germany and Italy. This period also saw efforts at peace through the League of Nations, but ultimately tensions grew, leading to the outbreak of World War II.
0/4
WWII
World War II (1939–1945) was a global conflict involving major powers divided into the Allies and Axis. It resulted in widespread destruction, the defeat of fascism, and significant geopolitical changes worldwide.
0/7
Cold War Period
The Cold War was a prolonged period of political and military tension between the USA and the Soviet Union after World War II. It was characterized by rivalry, arms race, and competition for global influence without direct large-scale fighting between the two superpowers.
0/5
Decolonisation of India and Kenya
Decolonisation of India and Kenya involved struggles for independence from British colonial rule, achieved through political movements and resistance. India gained independence in 1947, while Kenya achieved it in 1963 after a prolonged fight against colonial oppression.
0/12
Postcolonial Crisis
The postcolonial crisis refers to the challenges African countries faced after gaining independence, including political instability, ethnic conflicts, economic difficulties, and weak governance. These issues often hindered development and nation-building efforts in the newly independent states.
0/4
History Form 4

GERMANY’S CHALLENGES DUE TO REPARATIONS

  • Loss of Territory:
    France and Belgium occupied the Ruhr in 1923 when Germany failed to make reparations payments, worsening economic hardships.

    • The occupation disrupted coal and industrial production, leading to shortages and further economic decline.

    • German workers engaged in passive resistance, refusing to work, which deepened the crisis.

    • The government continued paying the striking workers, worsening the budget deficit.

  • Hyperinflation:
    The Weimar Republic printed large amounts of money to meet reparations and support striking workers.

    • Prices soared uncontrollably, and the German mark became worthless.

    • People’s life savings were wiped out, and middle-class families suffered the most.

    • Workers were paid multiple times a day to cope with rapidly rising prices.

    • Bartering became common as currency lost its value.

  • Economic Instability and Social Unrest:

    • Businesses collapsed due to unpredictable prices and lack of capital.

    • Unemployment and poverty increased, leading to widespread hunger and despair.

    • Public confidence in the Weimar Republic weakened, fostering political extremism.

    • The crisis provided fertile ground for radical parties, including the rise of the Nazi Party.

SOLUTIONS TO GERMANY’S ECONOMIC PROBLEMS

  • Gustav Stresemann’s Policies (1923–1929):

    • Introduced the Rentenmark to stabilize the currency.

    • Ended passive resistance in the Ruhr and resumed reparations.

    • Encouraged foreign investment and promoted cooperation with the Allies.

  • Dawes Plan (1924):

    • Provided US loans to Germany.

    • Rescheduled and reduced reparations payments to manageable levels.

    • Helped restore Germany’s economy and stabilize its currency.


LOCARNO TREATY (1925)

  • Significance:

    • Marked a period of improved relations between Germany and Western powers.

    • Fostered peace and mutual trust in post-war Europe.

  • Terms:

    • Germany accepted its western borders set by the Versailles Treaty.

    • Rhineland was to remain demilitarized.

    • Disputes would be settled through peaceful means.


YOUNG PLAN (1929)

  • Objective:

    • Further reduced Germany’s total reparations burden.

    • Extended the repayment period and encouraged new loans.

  • Challenges:

    • The Great Depression of 1929 severely reduced international financial support.

    • US loans dried up, hindering the success of the plan.

error: Content is protected !!
Scroll to Top