“Domestic instability was the main factor in Germany requesting an armistice in 1918.” Discuss.

Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that domestic problems were the main factor behind Germany requesting an armistice in 1918. When considering domestic problems there will be clear links as to how these affected the prosecution of the war. Evidence of domestic instability may include food riots after the “Turnip Winter”, major disturbances in industrial areas between January and February 1918, the Kiel Mutiny of October 1918 and the fear of revolution. These may all have contributed to the decision to request an armistice. Military factors discussed may include the failure of the Ludendorff Offensive and the Battle of Amiens. The fact that the military leaders had less influence on policy made an armistice more likely. The strength of the Allies and the belief that peace negotiations would be based on Wilson’s Fourteen Points could also be considered as relevant factors.