Communist Party

Definition

The Communist Party is a political organization that advocates for the principles of communism, including the establishment of a classless society and the abolition of private property. In the context of the Weimar Republic and Hitler's rise to power, the Communist Party was a significant force in German politics, competing with other political factions for influence during a time of economic instability and social unrest.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Communist Party of Germany (KPD) was founded in 1918 as a response to the social and economic turmoil following World War I.
2. During the Weimar Republic, the KPD often sought to mobilize workers through strikes and protests, promoting its revolutionary agenda against capitalism.
3. The rise of the KPD posed a significant challenge to other political groups, particularly as it gained traction among the working class in urban areas.
4. As political tensions escalated, many Germans viewed the KPD as a threat, leading to increased support for right-wing parties, including the Nazi Party.
5. In 1933, after Hitler's appointment as Chancellor, the Communist Party was banned as part of the Nazis' consolidation of power, leading to widespread persecution of its members.

Review Questions

• How did the Communist Party influence political dynamics during the Weimar Republic?
  • The Communist Party significantly influenced the political landscape during the Weimar Republic by advocating for workers' rights and pushing for radical reforms amidst widespread economic hardship. The party capitalized on social discontent caused by inflation and unemployment, which helped it gain considerable support among urban workers. However, its revolutionary tactics also contributed to fears among conservative and nationalist groups, leading to increased polarization in German politics.
• What role did the Communist Party play in relation to the rise of the Nazi Party?
  • The Communist Party played a complex role in relation to the rise of the Nazi Party. While it initially attracted support from disillusioned voters seeking change from the Weimar government's failures, its existence heightened fears of communism among conservative factions. This fear helped fuel the Nazi Party's rise as they positioned themselves as protectors against communism. Consequently, political violence between leftist and rightist groups escalated, further destabilizing Germany during this period.
• Evaluate how the actions and policies of the Communist Party impacted its eventual suppression under Nazi rule.
  • The Communist Party's aggressive tactics and calls for revolution ultimately led to its suppression under Nazi rule. Its persistent mobilization of workers and public protests were seen as direct threats by both conservative factions and Nazis alike. As Hitler's government consolidated power in 1933, it utilized fears of communism as justification for banning the KPD and persecuting its members. This suppression not only eliminated a significant opposition but also highlighted how political extremism on both ends shaped Germany's turbulent history during this era.

Related terms

Weimar Republic: The Weimar Republic was the democratic government established in Germany after World War I, lasting from 1919 until 1933, marked by political instability and economic challenges.

Nazi Party: The Nazi Party, or National Socialist German Workers' Party, was a far-right political party that rose to power in Germany during the early 1930s, promoting extreme nationalism and anti-communism.

Bolshevism: Bolshevism refers to the political ideology and practices of the Bolshevik faction of the Russian Social Democratic Labor Party, which led to the October Revolution in 1917 and the establishment of a communist government in Russia.