How important were foreign policy achievements under Stresemann in stabilising Weimar Germany between 1923 and 1929? Explain your answer.

Gustav Stresemann became Foreign Minister of the Weimar Republic in August 1923, during a period of immense crisis. The French occupation of the Ruhr, hyperinflation and political instability threatened the very existence of the German state. While his foreign policy achievements undoubtedly played a role in stabilising Weimar Germany, arguing that they were the most important factor is debatable. This essay will examine both sides of the argument, ultimately concluding that while Stresemann's foreign policy was crucial in reintegrating Germany on the world stage and fostering a period of relative stability, it was the combination of domestic economic reforms and a degree of political good fortune that ultimately proved more decisive.

The Case for Foreign Policy

Stresemann's foreign policy achievements were nothing short of remarkable, considering the dire situation he inherited. By agreeing to resume reparation payments, albeit under renegotiated terms, he paved the way for the Dawes Plan in 1924. This influx of 800 million gold marks, primarily from US loans, provided a much-needed injection into the German economy. This capital funded public works schemes, created employment, and kick-started industrial production, which by 1928 had exceeded pre-war levels. Furthermore, the Locarno Treaties of 1925, where Germany accepted its western borders with France and Belgium, marked a turning point in international relations. This willingness to engage in diplomacy, coupled with the subsequent admittance into the League of Nations in 1926, not only eased tensions with former enemies but also restored a sense of national pride and legitimacy to the Weimar Republic. These achievements fostered a sense of optimism and confidence both domestically and internationally, contributing significantly to the period of stability known as the 'Golden Twenties'.

The Case against Overemphasizing Foreign Policy

While Stresemann’s foreign policies were instrumental in creating a more favorable international climate for Germany, they were not without their drawbacks. The reliance on foreign loans, particularly from the USA, created a dangerous dependency. This became painfully clear with the Wall Street Crash of 1929, which plunged Germany into an even deeper economic crisis. Furthermore, the reduction of reparations under the Young Plan of 1929, while seemingly positive, was viewed with suspicion by right-wing nationalists who considered it a betrayal of German interests and a continuation of the "stab-in-the-back" myth.

More importantly, it was Stresemann's domestic policies, particularly in the realm of economics, that truly laid the foundation for stability. The introduction of the Rentenmark in 1923, later replaced by the Reichsmark, was crucial in ending hyperinflation and stabilizing the currency. This restored confidence in the German economy, brought an end to social unrest and uprisings, and significantly weakened support for extremist groups. Furthermore, the election of the respected war hero, Paul von Hindenburg, as President in 1925, appeased the nationalist elements within German society, further contributing to political stability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Stresemann's foreign policy achievements were undeniably important in stabilising Weimar Germany, they were not the sole or even the most critical factor. His successes on the international stage, securing loans, reducing reparations, and reintegrating Germany into the European order, were significant in fostering a period of relative economic prosperity and political calm. However, these successes were built upon the foundations laid by vital domestic reforms, particularly the stabilisation of the currency. Additionally, factors beyond Stresemann’s control, such as the willingness of foreign powers to cooperate and the relative calm of the global economy during the mid-1920s, played a significant role. Ultimately, the stabilisation of Weimar Germany during this period was the result of a complex interplay of foreign and domestic policies, combined with a degree of good fortune, rather than solely the result of Stresemann's foreign policy achievements.

Sources:

⭐Kolb, E. (2005). The Weimar Republic. Routledge.
⭐Lacey, A. (2008). Weimar and Nazi Germany. Hodder Education.