James Hawes

The greatest ‘if only’ of modern history… that the Weimar Republic had succeeded

The first German democracy seemed set to last, says Robert Gerwarth — before extremists wrecked it, leaving the path open to Hitler

Philip Scheidemann proclaims the German Republic on 9 November 1918. Credit: Getty Images

Already a subscriber? Log in

This article is for subscribers only

Get a free bottle of Johnnie Walker Black Label when you subscribe to The Spectator for just £12 in our Black Friday sale

  • Free bottle of Johnnie Walker Black Label whisky, worth £30
  • Unlimited access to our website and app
  • Enjoy Spectator newsletters and podcasts
  • Explore our online archive, going back to 1828

Comments

Black Friday sale: Get 10 weeks for just $1

Unlimited access to the The Spectator, online and via the app

Already a subscriber? Log in