What caused widespread hunger and misery in Germany in 1918?

The widespread hunger and misery in Germany in 1918 can be primarily attributed to the British naval blockade, which was implemented to cut off supplies to Germany during World War I. This blockade severely limited Germany's ability to import food and essential goods, leading to significant shortages across the country. The blockade was a strategic measure designed to weaken Germany economically and militarily, and its effects were felt particularly acutely by the civilian population. As a result, food became scarce, prices soared, and malnutrition was rampant, contributing to social unrest and dissatisfaction among the German populace.

While other factors were at play during this time, such as the ongoing war effort and poor agricultural yields, the blockade was the decisive cause for the acute food crisis. Military victories, if achieved, did not translate into better living conditions for the civilians who were grappling with the consequences of shortages caused by the blockade. Increased agricultural production was not a reality due to the devastation of the war and the depletion of resources. Moreover, trade agreements with neighboring countries were significantly hampered by the war and the blockade itself, further exacerbating the food crisis in Germany.