Development of Dictatorship in Germany
Dictatorship is a form of government where one person holds complete power, often leading to the suppression of dissent and abuse of human rights.
The Weimar Republic (1919-1933)
The Weimar Republic was the provisional government established in Germany after World War I, replacing Kaiser Wilhelm II. It signed the Armistice in November 1918 and the Versailles Treaty in 1919, which imposed heavy penalties on Germany. The Republic faced numerous challenges, including social and economic turmoil between 1919-1923, but recovery occurred from 1923-1929 under Gustav Stresemann, aided by U.S. funds. However, the Great Depression (1929-1933) worsened Germany’s problems.
Problems and Challenges that Led to Weimar’s Failure:
- Unpopularity: The Versailles Treaty made the government unpopular, fueling opposition, including from Hitler.
- Economic Issues:
- 1923: Failure to pay reparations led to French and Belgian occupation of the Ruhr.
- 1929: The Great Depression caused high inflation, unemployment, and currency devaluation.
- Rebellions:
- 1919: Spartacist rebellion by communists.
- 1920: Kapp Putsch by right-wing Freikorps.
- 1923: Munich Beer Hall Putsch led by Hitler.
- Political Assassinations: Many Freikorps members committed assassinations, and the government failed to punish them.
- Political Inexperience: Reichstag members lacked democratic experience, and parliamentary infighting was common.
- Lack of Confidence: Germans blamed the Weimar Republic for their defeat in World War I, believing the “stab-in-the-back” theory.
The Era of Gustav Stresemann (1923-1929)
Stresemann’s leadership brought economic stability and recovery. A new currency was introduced, the Dawes Plan provided U.S. loans, and Germany regained international recognition. Germany joined the League of Nations in 1926, and Stresemann died in 1929.