AS History₇₀₄₁

This option provides for the study in depth of a period of German history during which a newly developed democratic form of government gave way to a dictatorial Nazi regime. It explores political concepts such as the ‘right’ and ‘left’, nationalism and liberalism as well as ideological concepts such as racialism, anti-Semitism and social Darwinism. It also encourages reflection on how governments work and the problems of democratic states as well as consideration of what creates and sustains dictatorship.

The Weimar Republic, 1918–1933

The Establishment and early years of Weimar, 1918–1924

• The impact of war and the political crises of October to November 1918; the context for the establishment of the Weimar Constitution; terms, strengths and weaknesses
• The Peace Settlement: expectations and reality; terms and problems; attitudes within Germany and abroad
• Economic and social issues: post-war legacy and the state of the German economy and society; reparations, inflation and hyperinflation; the invasion of the Ruhr and its economic impact; social welfare and the social impact of hyperinflation
• Political instability and extremism; risings on the left and right, including the Kapp Putsch; the political impact of the invasion of the Ruhr; the Munich Putsch; problems of coalition government and the state of the Republic by 1924

The 'Golden Age' of the Weimar Republic, 1924–1928

• Economic developments: Stresemann; the Dawes Plan; industry, agriculture and the extent of recovery; the reparations issue and the Young Plan
• Social developments: social welfare reforms; the development of Weimar culture; art, architecture, music, theatre, literature and film; living standards and lifestyles
• Political developments and the workings of democracy: President Hindenburg; parties ; elections and attitudes to the Republic from the elites and other social groups; the position of the extremists, including the Nazis and Communists; the extent of political stability
• Germany’s international position; Stresemann's foreign policy aims and achievements including: Locarno; the League of Nations; the Treaty of Berlin; the end of allied occupation and the pursuit of disarmament

The Collapse of Democracy, 1928–1933

• The economic, social and political impact of the Depression: elections; governments and policies
• The appeal of Nazism and Communism; the tactics and fortunes of the extremist parties, including the role of propaganda
• Hindenburg, Papen, Schleicher and the 'backstairs intrigue' leading to Hitler’s appointment as chancellor
• Political developments: the Reichstag Fire; parties and elections; the Enabling Act and the end of democracy; the state of Germany by March 1933