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History - Comparison: Hitler, Stalin & Mao flashcards
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Card 1
What was the 'stab in the back' myth exploited by the Nazis regarding the Weimar Republic?
The 'stab in the back' myth claimed that the Weimar Republic betrayed Germany by signing the Treaty of Versailles in June 1919. This narrative fueled resentment against the government, portraying them as 'November criminals' who undermined the country's war effort.
Card 2
How did proportional representation contribute to Weimar political weakness?
Proportional representation allowed small extremist parties, like the Nazis, to gain seats in the Reichstag. This made it difficult to form stable majority governments, leading to frequent coalition collapses and offering an opening for parties promising 'strong leadership'.
Card 3
Define the significance of Article 48 in the Weimar Constitution.
Article 48 granted the German President emergency powers, allowing them to rule by decree without parliamentary approval. While intended for crises, its frequent use undermined democratic processes and contributed to political instability, paving the way for authoritarian rule.
Card 4
How did hyperinflation in the Weimar Republic impact public faith in the government?
Hyperinflation destroyed the savings of many Germans, particularly the middle class, and eroded their faith in the Weimar Republic's ability to manage the economy. This economic instability contributed to widespread discontent and a desire for radical change.
Card 5
What was the impact of the Wall Street Crash of 1929 on Germany's political landscape?
The Wall Street Crash of 1929 led to a severe economic depression in Germany, with unemployment hitting 6 million. This crisis further destabilized the Weimar Republic, destroyed moderate parties' support, and increased the appeal of extremist groups like the Nazis.
Card 6
How did the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk contribute to the conditions for the Bolsheviks' rise to power in Russia?
The Treaty of Brest-Litovsk, signed in 1918, was unpopular in Russia due to its harsh terms and territorial losses. While initially unpopular, the Bolsheviks had promised immediate peace, and the treaty's signing, despite its unpopularity, fulfilled that promise, allowing them to focus on consolidating power internally.
Card 7
What role did the 1905 Revolution play in highlighting the weakness of Russia's political system?
The 1905 Revolution, though suppressed, led to the creation of the Duma, a legislative assembly. However, the Duma had limited power, demonstrating the Tsar's reluctance to share authority and highlighting the fundamental weakness and unresponsiveness of the existing political system.
Card 8
How did the February 1917 Revolution contribute to a power vacuum in Russia?
The February 1917 Revolution led to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II and the collapse of the imperial government. This created a power vacuum, as the Provisional Government that emerged lacked legitimacy and struggled to effectively govern, opening the door for more radical groups like the Bolsheviks.
Card 9
Define 'War Communism' and explain its impact on economic conditions in Russia.
War Communism was an economic policy implemented by the Bolsheviks during the Russian Civil War, involving nationalization of industry, forced requisitioning of grain, and strict state control. It was highly unpopular due to its harshness and contributed to widespread economic hardship and revolts.
Card 10
What was the purpose of the New Economic Policy (NEP) introduced by Lenin?
The New Economic Policy (NEP), introduced in 1921, was a temporary measure that allowed for limited private enterprise and market mechanisms. Its purpose was to revive the Soviet economy after the devastation of War Communism and the Civil War, demonstrating the Bolsheviks' ideological flexibility to ensure survival.
Card 11
How did long-term economic problems in China contribute to the appeal of the CCP?
China's failure to modernize and widespread poverty created deep discontent among the population. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) offered a revolutionary alternative, promising to address these long-standing economic issues and improve the lives of the poor, which appealed to a large segment of society.
Card 12
What was the 'century of humiliation' and how did it impact China's political landscape?
The 'century of humiliation' refers to the period from the mid-19th to mid-20th centuries when China suffered defeats in wars, such as the First Sino-Japanese War, and was subjected to unequal treaties by foreign powers. This fostered a sense of national grievance and a desire for strong leadership to restore China's sovereignty, creating fertile ground for revolutionary movements.
Card 13
How did the Warlord Era contribute to the weakness of China's political system?
During the Warlord Era, China lacked a strong central authority, as various regional warlords controlled different territories. This political fragmentation and constant conflict prevented effective governance and created an opening for radical solutions like those offered by the CCP.
Card 14
How did hyperinflation during the Chinese Civil War affect the KMT's support base?
Hyperinflation during the Chinese Civil War destroyed the savings of the middle class, which had been a significant base of support for the Kuomintang (KMT). This economic devastation alienated a crucial segment of the population and eliminated the KMT's last remaining support, contributing to their downfall.
Card 15
What was the significance of the Munich Putsch for Hitler's strategy to gain power?
The failed Munich Putsch in November 1923, a coup attempt, taught Hitler that he needed to pursue power legally rather than through direct force. This realization shifted his strategy towards building political support and exploiting democratic processes to achieve his goals.
Card 16
Define 'Lebensraum' as an ideological justification used by the Nazis.
Lebensraum, meaning 'living space,' was a core Nazi ideology that provided justification for territorial expansion, particularly into Eastern Europe. It appealed to German nationalists who were angry about the territorial losses imposed by the Treaty of Versailles and sought to create a larger German empire.
Card 17
What was 'Autarky' in Nazi ideology and what did it promise?
Autarky, or economic self-sufficiency, was a Nazi ideological goal that promised Germany independence from 'international Jewish finance.' This concept aimed to reduce Germany's reliance on foreign trade and resources, appealing to nationalist sentiments and a desire for economic autonomy.
Card 18
How did the Red Terror contribute to the normalization of political violence in the USSR?
The Red Terror (1918-1922) involved widespread repression and killings by the Bolsheviks against perceived enemies. This period normalized political violence as a tool of governance, establishing a precedent for the use of coercion and fear to maintain power in the Soviet Union.
Card 19
How did Stalin's role as General Secretary of the Communist Party become a weapon for his rise to power?
Stalin's position as General Secretary, seemingly an administrative role, allowed him to control party appointments and promotions from 1922 onwards. He strategically filled the party with his supporters, gradually consolidating his influence and removing opponents, which became a crucial weapon in his acquisition of power.
Card 20
Define 'Socialism in One Country' and explain its appeal within the Soviet Communist Party.
'Socialism in One Country' was Stalin's ideology that advocated for building and consolidating socialism within the Soviet Union first, rather than pursuing immediate worldwide revolution. This appealed to party members seeking stability after the Civil War and focused on modernizing the USSR, contrasting with Trotsky's 'permanent revolution'.
Card 21
How did the People's Liberation Army (PLA) contribute to the CCP's emergence in China?
The People's Liberation Army (PLA) was instrumental in reinforcing the Chinese Communist Party's authority and achieving victory in the Civil War. Its military strength allowed the CCP to establish control over regions and implement its policies, ultimately leading to the party's emergence as the ruling power.
Card 22
What was the purpose of the 'Landlord trials' conducted by the CCP?
The 'Landlord trials' were public trials conducted by the CCP to eradicate the landlord class in China. These trials served to redistribute land to peasants, gain their support, and eliminate a traditional source of opposition, reinforcing the CCP's revolutionary agenda and control.
Card 23
Define the 'Laogai system' implemented by the CCP.
The 'Laogai system' refers to China's 'reform through labor' camps, which served as forced labor camps. These camps were used for both economic output and political brainwashing, aiming to reeducate and control individuals deemed enemies of the state or ideological deviants.
Card 24
How did the 'Little Red Book' contribute to Mao's charismatic leadership?
The 'Little Red Book,' a compilation of Mao Zedong's quotations, was widely distributed and used in schools and the military. It fostered a cult of personality around Mao, promoting his ideology and leadership, and encouraging loyalty and devotion among citizens, particularly during campaigns like the Cultural Revolution.
Card 25
What was the role of censorship in arts and literature in the Soviet Union under Stalin?
Censorship in literature and arts in the Soviet Union under Stalin aimed to align all cultural output with the party's ideology. It removed any content deemed critical or subversive, promoting a unified message and reinforcing the cult of personality around Stalin and Lenin.
Card 26
Define 'Collectivization' as implemented in the USSR under Stalin.
Collectivization involved the state gaining control of grain for export by liquidating Kulaks, which triggered the Great Famine of 1932-33. By 1937, 93% of peasants were collectivized, aiming to increase grain production and establish state control over it.
Card 27
How did Stalin's 5-Year Plans impact the USSR?
Stalin's 5-Year Plans, starting in 1928, shifted the USSR to a heavy industrial power. They focused on heavy industry like iron, coal, and steel, achieving rapid industrial growth at the cost of living standards and safety, transforming the USSR into a modern industrial power.
Card 28
What was the purpose of the 'Liquidation of Kulaks' during collectivization in the USSR?
The purpose of the 'Liquidation of Kulaks' was for the state to gain control of grain for export. This process was part of the broader collectivization effort, which ultimately led to the Great Famine of 1932-33.
Card 29
How did the 1936 Constitution in the USSR address freedom of speech and press?
The 1936 Constitution, specifically Article 125, granted freedom of speech and press, but strictly within party interests. Citizens could only vote for candidates approved by the party, indicating a controlled form of these freedoms.
Card 30
What was the 'Ryutin Affair' in 1932 and its consequence?
The 'Ryutin Affair' in 1932 involved the expulsion of 18% of the party members who attempted to organize resistance against Stalin. These individuals were later executed in 1937 during the purges.
Card 31
What was the 'Great Terror' in the USSR?
The 'Great Terror' was a period between 1936 and 1938 characterized by show trials, such as those of Kamenev and Zinoviev, resulting in approximately 700,000 executions. It also included an army purge in 1937 that killed 80,000 officers, significantly weakening the military before WWII.
Card 32
How did Stalin's foreign policy evolve before WWII?
Before WWII, Stalin realized the need to build alliances in Europe, leading to a trade deal with Germany in 1934 and USSR membership in the League of Nations in 1934. The USSR also became involved in the Spanish Civil War, concerned with the growing fascism in Europe.
Card 33
What were the aims of Hitler's foreign policies?
Hitler's foreign policies aimed at uniting all Germans and acquiring 'lebensraum' (living space). These goals guided his early actions like withdrawing from the League of Nations and rearming Germany.
Card 34
How did Hitler violate the Treaty of Versailles in his early foreign policy?
Hitler violated the Treaty of Versailles through the rearmament of Germany starting in 1935. He also sent troops to the Rhineland, which was supposed to be a demilitarized zone according to the treaty.
Card 35
What was the significance of the Nazi-Soviet Pact of 1939?
The Nazi-Soviet Pact of 1939 was significant because it allowed Hitler to invade Poland without worrying about a conflict with the USSR. This agreement temporarily removed the threat of a two-front war for Germany.
Card 36
What was the purpose of the 'New Plan' implemented by Schacht in Nazi Germany?
The 'New Plan' (1934-36) by Schacht aimed to improve Germany's balance of trade and reduce unemployment. It addressed the problem of higher imports than exports and organized industry, including the compulsory National Labour Force (RAD).
Card 37
How did Göring's 4-Year Plan contribute to rearmament in Nazi Germany?
Göring's 4-Year Plan (1936-42) focused on arms manufacturing, tight import controls, and domestic industry development. It also promoted substitute goods to reduce reliance on imports, all in support of Germany's rearmament efforts.
Card 38
Define 'Volksgemeinschaft' in the context of Nazi social policies.
'Volksgemeinschaft' means 'People's Community' and was a core concept in Nazi social policies. It was based on the idea of shared blood and soil, aiming to create a unified German society excluding those deemed 'undesirable'.
Card 39
How did Nazi policies impact women?
Nazi policies restricted women's rights and promoted inequalities, emphasizing their roles as 'children, kitchen, church.' The aim was to increase the birth rate for future soldiers, leading to policies like illegal abortion and the Lebensborn program.
Card 40
What were the Nuremberg Laws?
The Nuremberg Laws were a set of discriminatory laws enacted in Nazi Germany that stripped Jews of their citizenship and prohibited relations between Jews and Germans. These laws were a key step in the persecution of Jews.
Card 41
What was 'Kristallnacht' in 1938?
'Kristallnacht' in 1938 was a coordinated series of attacks on Jewish homes, businesses, and synagogues across Nazi Germany. It marked a significant escalation of violence and persecution against Jews.
Card 42
How did Mao consolidate power across China after 1949?
Mao consolidated power by dividing China into six regions, which were controlled by the PLA (People's Liberation Army). This centralized power across the country, ensuring the CCP's authority.
Card 43
What was the '3 Anti Campaign' in Mao's China?
The '3 Anti Campaign' in 1951 was a political campaign launched by Mao's China to combat corruption, waste, and bureaucracy. It aimed to purify the party and government ranks.
Card 44
What was the purpose of 'Laogai' in Mao's China?
'Laogai' refers to 'reform through labor' camps in Mao's China. These camps were used for both economic output and political brainwashing, serving as a tool for control and ideological indoctrination.
Card 45
How did the 'Little Red Book' contribute to Mao's cult of personality?
The 'Little Red Book' was widely used in schools and the military to promote the worship of Mao. It served as a key propaganda tool, especially during the Cultural Revolution, solidifying his cult of personality.
Card 46
What was the 'Sino-Soviet Treaty of Friendship, Alliance and Mutual Assistance' in 1950?
The 'Sino-Soviet Treaty of Friendship, Alliance and Mutual Assistance' in 1950 was an agreement between China and the USSR. It provided China with loans and deployed USSR advisers to China, aiding in economic planning and involvement in China's Five-Year Plans.
Card 47
Why did relations between China and the USA worsen after 1949?
Relations between China and the USA worsened after 1949 because the USA was unhappy with the civil war's outcome and supported the nationalists. The USA didn't recognize the PRC as the official government and sided with Taiwan in disputes, leading to anti-US propaganda from China.
Card 48
What was the 'Great Leap Forward' in Mao's China?
The 'Great Leap Forward' (1958) was an economic and social campaign aimed at catching up with Western industrialized nations and reducing reliance on the USSR. It involved communes and collectivization, but disrupted agricultural practices and led to a massive famine, causing 40 million deaths between 1959-61.
Card 49
What were the 'Four Olds' targeted during China's Cultural Revolution?
The 'Four Olds' targeted during China's Cultural Revolution (1966-76) were Old Customs, Old Culture, Old Habits, and Old Ideas. The Red Guards destroyed thousands of temples and historical sites as part of this campaign to reshape Chinese culture.
Card 50
How did the 1950 Marriage Law impact women in Mao's China?
The 1950 Marriage Law significantly improved women's rights by banning arranged marriages and concubinage. It also allowed women to file for divorce, own and sell land, and increased their presence in the workforce and congress.
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