Who drafted the initial version of the Weimar Constitution in 1919?
Hugo Preuss drafted the initial version of the Weimar Constitution in 1919. He envisioned a president who stood above political parties as a counterweight to the Reichstag.
Questions about President of Germany (1919–1945)
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When did Friedrich Ebert become the first leader of Germany under the new constitution?
Friedrich Ebert became the first leader via a vote by the Weimar National Assembly on the 11th of February 1919. That assembly counted 379 votes for him against 277 for his opponent.
What powers did Article 48 grant presidents during public order disturbances?
Article 48 granted sweeping authority when public order faced serious disturbance or threat. Presidents could suspend civil rights guaranteed elsewhere in the document and issue decrees that held equal legal weight to laws passed by parliament.
How many times did Paul von Hindenburg use Article 48 between 1930 and 1932?
The field marshal used Article 48 one hundred nine times between 1930 and 1932. Four presidential cabinets replaced normal legislative processes during these final years of the republic.
On what date did Adolf Hitler assume combined powers following Paul von Hindenburg's death?
Adolf Hitler assumed combined powers following Paul von Hindenburg's death on the 2nd of August 1934. A law issued the previous day merged the offices of president and chancellor permanently.
When did Allied forces arrest the members of the Flensburg government administration?
Allied forces arrested the members of this administration on the 23rd of May 1945. The office ceased to exist immediately upon occupation by British troops.