Political instability and extremism; risings on the left and right, including the Kapp Putsch; the political impact of the invasion of the Ruhr; the Munich Putsch; problems of coalition government and the state of the Republic by 1924
Between 1919 and 1924, armed groups on both the far left and far right tried to destroy the Weimar Republic by force. Coalition governments struggled to hold power, leaving Germany politically fragile by 1924.
Real World
In March 1920, Wolfgang Kapp and 5,000 Freikorps troops marched into Berlin and declared a new government — only to be defeated not by the army but by a general strike of Berlin's workers within four days.
Exam Focus
When evaluating political instability, distinguish between threats that nearly succeeded (Kapp Putsch) and those crushed quickly (Munich Putsch) — examiners reward precise differentiation.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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