How Inflation Made Money Cheaper than Firewood 💰

Economic Collapse Begins

In 1921, the Weimar Republic faced economic disaster as reparations from World War I strained its finances. To pay debts, the government began printing money, rapidly accelerating inflation.

Prices Skyrocket

By 1923, inflation spiraled out of control. Prices doubled daily, and everyday items became unattainable. A loaf of bread that cost 160 marks at the start of 1923 rose to 200 billion marks by year’s end.

Banknotes Worthless

Citizens carried wheelbarrows of cash just to buy basic necessities. Stories circulated of people burning stacks of banknotes for warmth, as they were cheaper than firewood.

Stabilization Efforts

In November 1923, the government introduced a new currency, the Rentenmark, backed by land and industrial assets. Inflation finally stabilized, but many Germans had lost their savings and livelihoods.

How Inflation Made Money Cheaper than Firewood 💰

Economic Collapse Begins
In 1921, the Weimar Republic faced economic disaster as reparations from World War I strained its finances. To pay debts, the government began printing money, rapidly accelerating inflation.

Prices… pic.twitter.com/DK6deOuuAB

— Detective Tiger’s Stories (@TigerDetective) October 30, 2024