What was the response of German workers in the Ruhr following the French takeover?

The correct answer highlights the significant response of German workers in the Ruhr following the French occupation in 1923. Instead of resorting to violent protests or expressing acceptance of the French control, the German workers engaged in passive resistance by refusing to work. This act of defiance was aimed at demonstrating their opposition to the occupation and asserting their national identity against foreign control.

The decision to stop working was emblematic of the workers' dissatisfaction and discontent with the situation, as they felt that their rights and sovereignty were being undermined. This passive resistance was not just a form of protest but also a strategy that the German government encouraged to undermine the legitimacy of the French presence in the Ruhr, hoping that it could lead to a diplomatic resolution.

The alternative scenarios, such as working harder to show loyalty or staging violent protests, do not accurately reflect the broader context of the situation. Therefore, the choice of passive resistance aligns closely with the historical events and attitudes of the time, reflecting the workers' resolve to oppose the French occupation without escalating into outright violence.