Wie trug die Novemberrevolution zum Mythos der 'Dolchstoßlegende' bei?

The November Revolution of 1918 in Germany, which led to the abdication Kaiser Wilhelm II and the establishment of the Weimar Republic, significantly contributed to the "stab-in-the-back" legend for several reasons:

1. **Military Defeat and Political Upheaval**: The revolution occurred in the aftermath of Germany's defeat in World War I. Many leaders and nationalists believed that the army had not been defeated on the battlefield but had been betrayed by civilians and politicians at home. The sudden shift from a monarchy to a republic was seen as a capitulation, fueling the narrative that the military was undermined by internal dissent.

2. **Role of Socialists and Revolutionaries**: The revolution was largely driven by socialist and revolutionary groups, including the Spartacus League, which later became the Communist Party of Germany. Their prominent role in the revolution was used by right-wing factions to argue that these groups had betrayed the nation, further entrenching the idea that the military's sacrifices were in vain due to internal treachery.

3. **Propaganda and Political Rhetoric**: Right-wing politicians and military leaders, such as General Erich Ludendorff, propagated the "stab-in-the-back" myth to explain the defeat and to shift blame away from military strategies and decisions. This narrative was effective in rallying nationalist sentiments and fostering resentment against the new democratic government, which was often portrayed as weak and illegitimate.

4. **Societal Division**: The revolution deepened societal divisions in Germany. Many Germans were unwilling to accept the new political order and sought scapegoats for the country's humiliation. The "stab-in-the-back" legend provided a convenient explanation for the loss of the war and the subsequent economic hardships, allowing right-wing groups to gain support by promoting a narrative of betrayal.

5. **Long-term Consequences**: The myth persisted throughout the Weimar Republic and was instrumental in the rise of extremist movements, including the Nazis. Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party exploited this legend to gain popular support, portraying themselves as the true defenders of Germany against the perceived betrayal by socialists, Jews, and other groups.

In summary, the November Revolution contributed to the "stab-in-the-back" legend by creating a narrative of betrayal that resonated with a population grappling with defeat and societal upheaval, ultimately shaping the political landscape of Germany in the years that followed.