1933 - 1934 Flashcards
(11 cards)
What happened in the March 1933 election?
The Nazis won 44% of the vote, not an absolute majority but enough to dominate with their coalition partners.
What was the Concordat?
An agreement between Nazi Germany and the Catholic Church that promised the Church protection in exchange for its political neutrality.
Why was the Enabling Act significant?
It ended democracy in Germany and allowed Hitler to establish a legal dictatorship.
How did Hitler consolidate power after the Enabling Act?
Banned all political parties except the Nazi Party.
Arrested political opponents.
Controlled the media and education.
Set up the Gestapo (secret police) to enforce Nazi rule.
What was the Enabling Act?
A law passed by the Reichstag giving Hitler the power to make laws without parliamentary approval for 4 years.
Why did Hitler sign the Concordat?
To reduce opposition from Catholics and gain legitimacy.
What was the Night of the Long Knives?
A purge where Hitler ordered the execution of SA leaders, including Ernst Röhm, and other political enemies.
Why did Hitler carry out this purge?
To consolidate power, gain the army’s support, and eliminate threats within his own party.
What happened when President Hindenburg died?
Hitler combined the roles of Chancellor and President, declaring himself “Führer” (leader).
What was the army oath after Hindenburg’s death?
The German army swore a personal oath of loyalty to Hitler, not to the constitution or Germany.
What were the impacts of Hitler becoming Führer and the army oath?
Cemented Hitler’s total control over Germany.
The army’s loyalty made opposition virtually impossible.
Marked the final step in the destruction of Weimar democracy.
