In this class, we will be taken back to Germany in the years after World War I, when the leaders of what came to be called the Weimar Republic tried to establish a new democratic state. With your classmates, we will reconstruct the issues that confronted this struggling democracy. We will explore using examples of artwork, campaign posters, and other materials and primary sources from the time. We will look at economics, culture, politics, society and their roles in the increasingly serious symptoms that lead to the death of the Weimar system and gave rise to Adolf Hitler and Nazi dictatorship. How could such a successful country, proud of its heritage, become so destructive in a period of forty years? And what can we learn about this democracy's descent into dictatorship? By understanding how democracy died in Weimar Germany, you will better understand the risks and challenges facing democratic governments around the world today.

There will be approximately 3 1/2 hours of homework per week for reading, videos, discussion/presentation preparation. Additional optional work may be provided. Students need the ability to participate in class discussion and work in groups for presentations. Presentations can be in a form that suits the student (freeform speaking, posterboard, make a video, written paper, formal presentation, art, etc.)

Teacher: Ann Marie Tate

Minimum/maximum: 4/10

Age range: 10+; younger students with an interest in the subject please feel free to contact me to discuss

Price: $36

Class prerequisites: Ability to be prepared and participate in group discussion, and participate in group presentations.

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Family must register for LOGYC Coop in order to sign up for classes.