Reviews for Germany Tried Democracy: A Political History of the Reich, 1918-1933 - S. William Halperin -...

The average rating for Germany Tried Democracy: A Political History of the Reich, 1918-1933 - S. William Halperin -... based on 2 reviews is 3.5 stars.

Review # 1 was written on 2015-10-31 00:00:00 Danny Narsaur This book was originally published in 1946 and is probably still the best book about the politics of the Weimar Republic. Although I was fascinated by the events, in many ways it was too difficult for me. The cast of characters is huge and the day-to-day events overwhelming. However, it was worth it (I doubt I'll have the patience for a second read, which it really deserves). How did Germany go from losing World War I to a democracy and to Hitler--it's complicated. The author tries to give the many factors: The treaty of Versailles, reparations, Germany's refusal to take responsibility for the war, unemployment, the great depression. Each one played into Hitler's hands. Those in power underestimated Hitler and allowed him to step up as Chancellor--they didn't realize he was someone they couldn't control or influence or control. The book is entirely about the political situation. I wish it had included some of the cultural events in Germany--film, music, art. For people really interested in the period.

Review # 2 was written on 2014-11-26 00:00:00 Justin Hanuse Didn't read to the end, only the first half before Hitler shows up, because that's why I got the book in the first place: to see what were the circumstances before his ascent. It's old-school history, dry, fact-filled, thorough, minimally speculative.