“Germany experienced a ‘Golden Era’ during the Stresemann years (1924–1929).” To what extent do you agree with this statement?

The question requires that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the statement. Reference may be made to foreign policy, for example the signing of the Locarno Accords and joining with the League, and argue that, internally, resentment about Versailles was reduced. The introduction of the Rentenmark stabilized the currency and the Dawes and Young Plans reduced the burden of reparations. Hindenburg’s election in 1925 reduced criticism from nationalists, and there were no attempts to overthrow the Weimar Republic. Candidates may argue that economic recovery was based on short-term loans and there was a budget deficit for much of the period, and that “Germany was dancing on the edge of a volcano”. Unemployment remained high and an agricultural depression began in 1927. Politically, no party gained a majority and governments were coalitions, albeit formed of pro-Weimar parties. Candidates may agree, disagree or partially disagree with the statement.

The question required candidates to consider the merits or otherwise of the statement that Germany experienced a “Golden Era” during the Stresemann years (1924-1929). Some good knowledge and arguments were provided by some candidates. However, some other candidates did not seem to have the knowledge base to answer the question and only knew about the terms of the Treaty of Versailles and/or the rise of Hitler.