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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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History Form 4

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:

  1. Unpopularity: The Versailles Treaty made the government unpopular, fueling opposition, including from Hitler.

  2. 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.

  3. Rebellions:

    • 1919: Spartacist rebellion by communists.

    • 1920: Kapp Putsch by right-wing Freikorps.

    • 1923: Munich Beer Hall Putsch led by Hitler.

  4. Political Assassinations: Many Freikorps members committed assassinations, and the government failed to punish them.

  5. Political Inexperience: Reichstag members lacked democratic experience, and parliamentary infighting was common.

  6. 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.

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