Paliamentarisation of Germany

The defeat of Germany in the First World War becomes increasingly apparent. At the same time, democratic tendencies in the Kaiserreich become stronger. The Majority Social Democrats (MSPD), Progressive Liberals, National Liberals, and the Centre join to demand the „complete parliamentarisation of Germany“. In future the Reich government should answer only to the parliament and no longer to the Kaiser.

© Deutsches Historisches Museum, Berlin Kaiser Wilhelm II (middle) with Hindenburg (left) and Ludendorff (right) in the German Headquarter

Because of the situation on the front lines and at home, the top Supreme Military Command (OHL) leaders, Paul von Hindenburg and Erich Ludendorff, convince Kaiser Wilhelm II that it is necessary to open cease fire negotiations with the allies. On 30 September 1918, Wilhelm II proclaims the parliamentarisation of Germany – but too late. His fall can no longer be prevented.