Ebert's Government and the 1919 Elections

In November 1918, German officials signed an armistice ending World War I. With the Kaiser abdicated, Germany faced the challenge of establishing a new government. Ebert, the German Chancellor, took steps to stabilize the new republic by retaining civil servants, maintaining the army's structure, and reassuring industry leaders. Despite these efforts, political unrest persisted. Elections were held in January 1919, leading to the formation of the Weimar Republic with a new constitution. The video concludes with a call for viewer engagement and discussion.

What significant event in November 1918 led to the need for a new government in Germany?

• The abdication of the Kaiser

• The signing of the Treaty of Versailles

• The German Revolution

• The start of World War II

What was one of the first steps Ebert took to stabilize the new republic?

• He arranged for civil servants to keep their jobs

• He dissolved the army

• He closed all schools

• He nationalized private industries

How did Ebert ensure the support of the army?

• By promising to increase their salaries

• By merging the army with the police force

• By assuring no changes to the army and keeping officers' ranks

• By reducing the size of the army

What promise did Ebert make to the trade unions?

• To provide free healthcare

• To increase wages by 50%

• To achieve an eight-hour workday

• To reduce working hours to six hours a day

Who were particularly unhappy with Ebert's efforts to stabilize the republic?

• The industrial leaders

• The civil servants

• The radical left and far right

• The moderate left

What was the purpose of the elections announced by Ebert?

• To decide on the nationalization of industries

• To select a National Assembly to create a new constitution

• To choose a new Kaiser

• To elect a new Chancellor

What percentage of the electorate participated in the January 1919 elections?

• 90%

• 60%

• 50%

• 82%

Which party won the most seats in the January 1919 elections?

• The SPD (Ebert's party)

• The Center Party

• The National Socialist Party

• The Communist Party

Where did the National Assembly meet due to unrest in Berlin?

• Munich

• Weimar

• Frankfurt

• Hamburg

What was the final vote count for the adoption of the new constitution on July 31, 1919?

• 262 votes to 75

• 300 votes to 50

• 150 votes to 125

• 200 votes to 100