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Date November 2020 Marks available 15 Reference code 20N.3op4.HL.TZ0.26
Level Higher level only Paper Paper 3 (History of Europe) Time zone TZ0
Command term Discuss Question number 26 Adapted from N/A

Question

Section 13: Europe and the First World War (1871–1918)

“The strategic errors of the Central Powers were the most significant reason for their defeat in 1918.” Discuss.

Markscheme

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that the strategic errors of the Central Powers were the most significant reason for their defeat in 1918. Candidates may refer to military tactics and errors such as the Schlieffen Plan; events such as the battle of the Marne or Verdun; or unrestricted submarine warfare by Germany, which could be considered a cause of the US entry into the war and significant to their defeat. Some may argue that the continuation of German offensives in 1917–1918 contributed to their defeat or that the weakness and different power balance between the Central Powers and the Entente was a significant reason. Other relevant factors may be addressed, for example, the internal domestic challenges within the Central Powers, the crumbling of Germany’s allies or the differing levels of economic resources on both sides. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

Examiners report

The question required that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that the strategic errors of the Central Powers were the most significant reason for their defeat in 1918. This was a popular question. There were some excellent responses with in-depth knowledge which discussed strategic errors as well as a wealth of other reasons for the Central Powers' defeat; including domestic problems in Germany, Germany's weak allies, the strength of the Entente powers and the role of the US.

Syllabus sections

HL options: first exams 2017 » HL option 4: History of Europe » 13: Europe and the First World War (1871–1918) » Factors leading to the defeat of Germany and the other Central Powers, and to the victory of the Entente Powers: strategic errors; economic factors; entry and role of the US; domestic instability in the Central Powers
HL options: first exams 2017 » HL option 4: History of Europe » 13: Europe and the First World War (1871–1918)
HL options: first exams 2017 » HL option 4: History of Europe
HL options: first exams 2017

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