GCSEHistoryEdexcelExam QuestionsWeimar & Nazi Germany, 1918-1939Exam Questions: Weimar & Nazi Germany, 1918–39

Exam Questions: Weimar & Nazi Germany, 1918–39 (Edexcel GCSE History): Exam Questions

Exam code: 1HI0

4 hours27 questions

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Exam Questions: Weimar & Nazi Germany, 1918–39

1
16 marks

How far do you agree with Interpretation 2 about the reasons why Hitler became Chancellor in 1933? 

Explain your answer, using both interpretations and your knowledge of the historical context

Interpretation 1 is by H A Turner (1996). It argues that Hitler did not seize power, it was handed to him by von Papen and Hindenburg. It argues that Hindenburg did not trust von Schleicher and had to choose Hitler over him. Interpretation 2 is by I Kershaw (1991), highlighting Nazi mass support. By 1932, Hitler had achieved 13 million voters and 800,000 Party members. It argues that mass support was vital for Hitler gaining power.

How did you do?

2
16 marks

How far do you agree with Interpretation 2 about support for the Nazi Party in the years 1924-28? 

Explain your answer, using both interpretations and your knowledge of the historical context.

Interpretation 1 cites G Layton, stating Hitler gained power through elections, restructured the party, and increased support after the Munich Putsch. It states that in 1928, the Nazis gained votes in rural areas and with the middle classes. Interpretation 2, from Spartacus Education, highlights the economic recovery under Weimar. This shows that people were not interested in Hitler's ideas. In the 1928 election, the Nazi Party only won 12 seats.

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3
16 marks

How far do you agree with Interpretation 2 about the extent of support for the Nazi regime in the years 1933–39? 

Explain your answer, using both interpretations and your knowledge of the historical context.

Interpretation 1 is by C Epstein. He argues that many Germans resisted the Nazi regime by refusing to do the Nazi salute or protesting against Nazi control of schools and churches. Interpretation 2 is by R Gellately. He claims widespread conformity and support for Nazis. He states that so many people tried to join the Nazi Party in 1933 that the Party struggled to cope with the numbers.

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4
16 marks

How far do you agree with Interpretation 2 about Nazi policies towards women? 

Explain your answer, using both interpretations and your knowledge of the historical context.

Interpretation 1 is by J Hite and C Hinton. It notes the increase in female employment due to economic needs. By 1936, more workers were needed in agriculture and industry in Germany and by 1939, this became serious enough to force women back into employment. Interpretation 2 was written by the History Learning Site. It emphasises Nazi encouragement of women to leave work for homemaking and motherhood. It says that 800,000 couples accepted loans offered as part of the Law for the Encouragement of Marriage.

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5
16 marks

How far do you agree with Interpretation 2 about the challenges facing the Weimar Republic in the years 1919–23?

Explain your answer, using both interpretations and your knowledge of the historical context.

Interpretation 1 is written by M Rathbone. It highlights political opposition to the Republic. He states that both Left and Right were prepared to destroy the Weimar Republic by force. Their actions made it difficult for the government to maintain order. Interpretation 2 is written by Alpha History. It describes hyperinflation and economic collapse in 1923. It states that the events of 1923 show that the government could not find a solution instead of printing money. It was at this point that people began to speak of a popular revolution or a military putsch.

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