Final answer:
A move of Germany towards the left on the political spectrum would likely stem from a surge in support for socialist or leftist parties, influenced by economic hardship, governance issues, or egalitarian desires, reminiscent of the post-World War I environment.
Step-by-step explanation:
An event that would cause Germany to move toward the left on the political continuum would be an increase in influence of leftist or socialist parties, similar to the rise of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) and the German Communist Party (KPD) in the aftermath of World War I. This shift could occur as a result of economic turmoil, widespread dissatisfaction with current governance, or a desire for more egalitarian policies.
Historical context is essential to understanding these shifts. For example, the establishment of the Weimar Republic was a move to the left, compared to the imperial government it replaced. Conversely, the later rise of fascism in Germany marked a dramatic swing to the right.
In Germany, a significant event that caused the country to move toward the left on the continuum was the rise of fascism in the aftermath of World War I. The devastating military loss in the war and the perception that civilian politicians were responsible for the defeat led to social and political upheaval. The German population, including monarchists, socialists, and communists, began to contest for control of the streets, and left-wing forces with Marxist sympathies, such as the Social Democratic Party of Germany and the German Communist Party, gained influence.