How much of the threat to the Republic were the left?

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  • Created by: Hope G
  • Created on: 01-06-16 18:55

How much of the threat to the Republic were the left?

Advantages

  • The fear of communist revolution was considerable. Kiel in 1918 + Bavaria 1919, as well as street violence + industrial unrest.
  • Fear of Soviet Red Army and perceived 'red threat' never diminished.
  • The threat of revolution encouraged many to share the analysis of the right that the Republic was based on weak government and should therefore be replaced.

Disadvantages

  • Revolutionary left was divided and weakened by the lack of widespread support.
  • The head-on-revolt tactic against the state was counterproductive and never threatened to succeed in its objective of prompting a Bolshevik style takeover.

Evaluation

The elections of June 1920 were overshadowed by bitter disappointment of the treaty and continuing political unrest. The votes highlighted a distinct polaristion and a swing towards parties of the 'Weimar Coalition'. Parties supporting the Republic saw their votes collapse by 6 million in comparison to 1919 elections.  The 'Weimar Coalition' received only 44% of the vote + majority of the Reichstag were unsympathetic/hostile to the new Republic. The largest party in the Reichstag- SPD, were reluctant to work with other parties in coalition governments for fear of further alienating their supporters. 

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