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
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

NONFICTION

When Women Ran Fifth Ave: Glamour and Power at the Dawn of American Fashion
by Satow, Julie
NONFICTION

The Wrong Stuff: How the Soviet Space Program Crashed and Burned
by Strausbaugh, John
NONFICTION

Bloody Tuesday: The Untold Story of the Struggle for Civil Rights in Tuscaloosa
by Giggie, John M.
NONFICTION

Reds: The Tragedy of American Communism
by Isserman, Maurice
NONFICTION

The Light of Battle: Eisenhower, D-Day, and the Birth of the American Superpower
by Paradis, Michel
NONFICTION

The Book-Makers: A History of the Book in Eighteen Lives
by Smyth, Adam
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?