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Study Sources B and C - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 3 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 3
Study Sources B and C. How useful are Sources B and C for an enquiry into the challenges facing the Weimar Republic in the years 1919-23? Explain your answer, usin... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Study Sources B and C - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 3 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
How useful are Sources B and C for an enquiry into the challenges facing the Weimar Republic in the years 1919-23?
Answer
To assess the usefulness of Sources B and C, it is essential to evaluate their content, context, and the perspectives they provide.
Source B discusses the hyperinflation experienced in Germany during the early 1920s, explaining how it eroded public trust in the government. As a source from a contemporary perspective, it offers insights into public sentiment and governmental challenges.
Source C, on the other hand, provides a government's viewpoint regarding the socio-economic instability. It emphasizes the impact of the Treaty of Versailles and international factors contributing to the Republic's struggles.
Both sources are useful, but they have limitations. Source B is subjective and may not represent all societal views, while Source C could be biased towards governmental stability narratives. Overall, the two sources are complementary but should be analyzed critically to understand their limitations.
Step 2
What is the main difference between these views?
Answer
The primary difference between Interpretations 1 and 2 lies in their focus and emphasis on the challenges facing the Weimar Republic.
Interpretation 1 highlights the severe economic crises, portraying them as the principal threat to the stability of the Republic. It underscores the damaging effects of hyperinflation and public discontent.
Interpretation 2, in contrast, emphasizes political challenges, arguing that political extremism and instability posed the greater danger. It points out that while economic issues were significant, it was the lack of political consensus that ultimately undermined the Republic's resilience.
Step 3
Suggest one reason why Interpretations 1 and 2 give different views about challenges facing the Weimar Republic in the years 1919-23.
Answer
One reason for the differing views in Interpretations 1 and 2 is the perspectives of the authors. Interpretation 1 may be seen from an economic standpoint, possibly influenced by events such as the hyperinflation of 1923, which disproportionately affected the populace's everyday lives. Meanwhile, Interpretation 2 likely derives from a more political-focused analysis, highlighting the role of extremist parties and the failure of democratic governance as significant challenges. These differing emphases explain the contrasting interpretations of the same period.
Step 4
How far do you agree with Interpretation 2 about the challenges facing the Weimar Republic in the years 1919-23?
Answer
I partially agree with Interpretation 2 regarding the challenges facing the Weimar Republic. While I acknowledge that political instability and the threat from extremist groups were immense challenges, I believe that the economic factors cannot be underestimated. The hyperinflation crisis led to a loss of faith in the government, which in turn fueled radical politics.
The failure to create a stable political foundation exacerbated the economic issues, making it difficult for any government to address the crises effectively. Thus, while Interpretation 2 rightly points out the political dangers, it should also recognize that economic conditions played a critical role in shaping the political landscape of the Weimar Republic.