The interwar period indeed witnessed a severe challenge to the Democratic state system. Economic instability, rise of totalitarian regimes, and ideological conflicts posed significant threats. The Great Depression and the ascent of fascist and authoritarian governments undermined democratic institutions, leading to geopolitical tensions that culminated in World War II.
UPSC Mains General Studies Paper – 1 Mains 2021
UPSC Mains Civil Services IAS Exam Question Paper – 2021
Approach
- Start with a brief introduction of the “Democratic State System” Interwar period between two world wars.
- Give a brief mention of the cause behind the collapse of democratic state system post first world war.
- Explain the challenges posed to the democratic state system between 1919-39.
- Conclude the answer by mentioning the outbreak of the second world war.
Answer
Introduction
- The democratic state system, also known as liberal democracy, is a form of government characterised by representative institutions, the rule of law, protection of individual rights, and regular elections.The interwar period, spanning roughly from the end of World War I in 1918 to the outbreak of World War II in 1939, was a significant era of global transformation and political upheaval. During this time, the world witnessed the rise and fall of various political systems, including the emergence and subsequent challenges faced by the democratic state system.
Body
The cause collapse of democratic state system post first world war: The collapse of the democratic state system following World War I can be attributed to a combination of factors:
- Treaty of Versailles: Harsh terms imposed on Germany, including reparations, territorial losses, and military restrictions, created resentment and fueled nationalist sentiments.
- Economic Turmoil: Devastating economic consequences of the war, including inflation, unemployment, and social unrest, destabilised countries and eroded public trust in democratic systems.
- Rise of Extremism: Emergence of radical ideologies like fascism, communism, and totalitarianism promised stability and attracted disillusioned populations seeking solutions to economic and political crises.
- Weaknesses of Democratic Institutions: Inexperienced democratic governments, political divisions, weak coalitions, and ineffective leadership undermined the functioning of democratic institutions, making them vulnerable to authoritarian takeovers.
- Nationalism and Ethnic Tensions: Dissolution of empires and redrawing of borders created ethnic and nationalist tensions, often leading to discrimination and marginalisation, fueling nationalist movements hostile to democracy.
The challenges posed to the democratic state system between 1919-39: During the period between 1919 and 1939, the democratic state system faced several significant challenges:
- Economic Instability: The Great Depression of the 1930s severely impacted democratic states, leading to high unemployment rates, economic hardship, and social unrest. The economic turmoil strained the effectiveness of democratic institutions and undermined public trust in their ability to address economic challenges.
- Rise of Totalitarianism: The interwar period saw the rise of authoritarian and totalitarian regimes that posed a significant challenge to democratic systems. Leaders like Adolf Hitler in Germany, Benito Mussolini in Italy, and Joseph Stalin in the Soviet Union exploited political and economic crises to gain power and dismantle democratic institutions.
- Political Polarisation: Political divisions and instability weakened democratic states. Weak coalition governments, frequent changes in leadership, and ideological clashes made it difficult to achieve consensus and effectively address pressing issues.
- Weaknesses of International Institutions: International organisations, such as the League of Nations, faced challenges in maintaining peace and resolving conflicts. Inadequate enforcement mechanisms and the failure to address rising tensions and aggression weakened the effectiveness of international institutions in upholding democratic norms.
- Militarization and Arms Race: The period was marked by increased militarization and an arms race among nations. The focus on military buildup strained economies and diverted resources from social welfare programs, potentially undermining democratic institutions’ ability to address societal needs.
- Threats to Colonial Empires: Movements for self-determination and decolonization challenged democratic states with colonial empires. The struggle for independence and demands for political autonomy posed challenges to the democratic state system, forcing a reevaluation of colonial policies.
Conclusion
- Hence, its establishment as a means to maintain peace after World War I, the League of Nations’ efforts ultimately failed in preventing the outbreak of another global conflict. In 1939, Adolf Hitler’s invasion of Poland compelled Great Britain and France to respond by declaring war on Germany, officially marking the start of World War II. The war, lasting six years, would go on to claim more lives and cause greater destruction worldwide than any previous conflict.
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