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Describe two problems faced by Germany following the Kaiser's abdication in 1918. - AQA - GCSE History - Question 4 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 4
Describe two problems faced by Germany following the Kaiser's abdication in 1918.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Describe two problems faced by Germany following the Kaiser's abdication in 1918. - AQA - GCSE History - Question 4 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
One problem was that, with the Kaiser gone, Germany needed a new type of government.
Answer
Germany was faced with the challenge of establishing a new political system after the Kaiser abdicated. The transition away from a monarchy required the creation of a democratic government, which the country was not prepared for. This led to instability, as many Germans preferred the previous autocratic rule and were skeptical about the new democratic institutions. The lack of experience in managing a democracy contributed to ineffective governance during this transitional phase.
Step 2
Another problem was the threat of revolution from both the left and the right.
Answer
Following the abdication, radical groups, particularly the Spartacists, sought to establish a communist government in Germany. Therefore, the newly formed government faced violent uprisings and civil unrest. The government’s inability to stabilize the situation was exacerbated by threats from right-wing paramilitary groups, like the Freikorps, who opposed any leftist influence. This internal conflict further weakened the government's authority and slowed the recovery process after World War I.