A putsch is a term used to describe a REVOLT or COUP, which are both forms of sudden, often violent attempts to overthrow a government. A putsch is usually led by a small group of people who are attempting to seize power from the existing government. The term 'putsch' is derived from the German word for 'STRIKE' and was first used in the 19th century to describe a failed attempt to overthrow the Bavarian monarchy. In modern times, the term has been used to describe a variety of uprisings, including the Nazi Party's failed Beer Hall Putsch in 1923.