HISTORY

1923: The Crisis of German Democracy in the Year of Hitler’s Putsch

by Mark William Jones
Basic: Perseus. Aug. 2023. 432p. ISBN 9781541600201. $32. HIST
COPY ISBN
Jones (history, Univ. College Dublin; Founding Weimar) delivers a well-written analysis of the politics of the Weimar period in Germany (1918–33), focusing particularly on the tumultuous events of 1923. The depth of research makes the book both fascinating and frightening as the author takes readers through the impact of the occupation of Germany’s industrial Ruhr valley by French and Belgian troops. Integrating primary sources from journalists and diarists, the book draws a full picture of Germany and its relationship to its European neighbors after World War I and the consequent effects on the economy. Jones dives into the politics within Germany as the democratically elected Weimar Republic dealt with challenges, particularly Hitler’s Munich Putsch, to the government.
VERDICT What sets this book apart from other titles on the subject is the author’s focus on regional political and economic differences within Germany and his research on the early deportations of Jews from Bavaria and the consequent impact. A relevant title for readers of world history.
Reviewed by Amy Lewontin , Aug 11, 2023
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