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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. [4 marks]
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
Problem 1: Political Instability
Answer
Following the abdication of the Kaiser, Germany faced significant political instability. The abdication resulted in a power vacuum, leading to the establishment of a new government. This new regime was considered to be unreliable by many citizens, who had lost faith in traditional political structures. The Weimar Republic struggled to gain legitimacy and faced opposition from both left-wing and right-wing factions, making it difficult to create stable governance.
Step 2
Problem 2: Social Unrest
Answer
Another major problem was widespread social unrest, exemplified by the Spartacist uprising in January 1919. Many Germans were unhappy with the political changes, fearing the loss of their rights and jobs. The Spartacists, a communist faction, sought to implement their vision of a socialist Germany. The government's response to suppress such revolts was often violent, which exacerbated tensions within society and led to further instability.