history Nazi Germany

History Revision Guide

1889- Hitler was born in Austria, he left school with no qualifications, and he failed at being an artist in Vienna. He was found unfit to join the army, but in 1914 he joined the First World War. He was a good soldier and he won many medals and was a good speaker.

1914-1918 – the First World War was happening and in 1918 they realised they were losing.  Knowing that they lost Germany was uncertain about their future. The Kaiser was abdicated (It means to formally relinquish power or authority, as when a monarch abdicates. It also means "surrender"). They faced protests from the public, the armed soldiers and a threat from the left wing party.

Left wing: Anti-fascist, they opposed capitalism, they emphasised on equality.                                                                                                                  Right wing: Anti-communists, they supported capitalism.

The President

Elected every 7 years.  Had power to appoint the chancellor. In emergencies could make laws without the Reichstag.

The Chancellor

Appointed by the President and had to have the support of the Reichstag.

The Reichstag

They are the same as the House of Commons and they had the power to pass or reject laws. They are elected by proportional representation every 4 years.

The German People

All adults over the age of 20 could vote for the president and the Reichstag. Had equal rights and they had free speech and could travel freely.

Treaty of Versailles

This was signed in June 1919 by the victorious countries. They had to accept 4 different terms.

Territorial terms:

·         Alsace-Lorraine was returned to France

·         West Posen, Upper Silesia  were given to Poland

·         Eupen Malmedy lost to Belgium

·        …