Overview
This lecture covers Gustav Stresemann's impact on the recovery and cultural development of the Weimar Republic from 1923 to 1929, including political, economic, and social reforms.
Stresemann's Chancellorship and Initial Reforms
- Gustav Stresemann became Chancellor of the Weimar Republic in August 1923.
- He ended the Ruhr strikes and improved relations with the Allies by September 1923.
- Stresemann introduced the Rentenmark in November 1923 to stabilize currency and fix hyperinflation.
- He stepped down as Chancellor in November 1923 but became Foreign Minister.
Economic Recovery Plans
- The Dawes Plan (1924) secured a US loan of 800 million marks and set a five-year reparations plan.
- The Young Plan (1929) reduced reparations by 67% and extended payments to 1988.
- These measures stabilized Germany's economy but made it dependent on US loans.
Diplomatic Achievements
- The Locarno Pact (1925) confirmed Germany's western borders and established peaceful relations with France, Britain, Belgium, and Italy.
- Germany joined the League of Nations in 1926, gaining greater international influence.
- The Treaty of Berlin (1926) with the USSR ensured neutrality and good relations.
- The Kellogg-Briand Pact (1928) promoted diplomatic conflict resolution among nations.
- Allied troops left the Rhineland by 1930, ending occupation.
Social and Cultural Developments
- Economic stability allowed increased cultural expression and social activity.
- Artists enjoyed freedom from censorship, producing politically charged and modern art.
- Literary works, such as "All Quiet on the Western Front," focused on emotional depth and anti-war themes.
- Cinema, theater, clubs, and cabarets flourished, promoting social freedom and acceptance.
Societal Impacts
- State welfare and unemployment insurance supported vulnerable groups, but help was insufficient for many.
- Women gained voting rights and political representation, though workplace equality remained limited.
- Jewish citizens saw more social and cultural success but still faced anti-Semitism.
- Farmers did not benefit from economic growth due to global grain surplus and price drops.
Challenges and Backlash
- Traditionalists opposed rapid social and cultural changes, feeling threatened.
- Economic and social shifts led to backlash movements, fueling later Nazi support after 1929.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Weimar Republic — German government from 1919 to 1933.
- Rentenmark — New currency introduced to stop hyperinflation.
- Dawes Plan — 1924 agreement for US loans and reparations schedule.
- Young Plan — 1929 agreement reducing reparations further.
- Locarno Pact — 1925 peace treaty confirming German borders.
- League of Nations — International organization for peace; Germany joined in 1926.
- Treaty of Berlin — 1926 treaty securing German-Soviet neutrality.
- Kellogg-Briand Pact — 1928 multinational agreement to avoid war.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review details of the Dawes and Young Plans.
- Understand how Stresemann's diplomacy contributed to Weimar stability.
- Study the social and cultural changes within Weimar society.