Hitler's rise to power Flashcards
When did Hitler become Chancellor?
30th January, 1933
How did Hitler become chancellor?
After failures from Brunning, Franz Von Papen and Schleicher, Papen and Hitler made a deal for Hitler to become chancellor as he wielded significant political influence and popularity.
Why did chancellor Bruning fail?
Could not pass laws in Reichstag without article 48, which weakened the democratic process.
He used it 5 times in 1930, and 66 times in 1932. Political instability was on the rise, as was unemployment.
Why did Franz Von Papen fail as Chancellor?
He struggled for support in the Reichstag, thus requiring the dissolving of the Reichstag. When new elections were held, Schleicher was appointed by Hindenburg (Dec 1932).
What was the Reichstag fire?
- German parliament building was burnt down
- Suggested communists were behind this
When was the Reichstag fire?
27th Feb, 1933
How did the Reichstag fire allow Hitler to gain more power?
Hitler suggested there was a greater communist plot, and due to the fear of the spread of communism, he was able to use article 48 of the Weimar constitution.
- this allowed police power to hold suspects without trial
- anti-nazi newspapers were shut
What was article 48?
Article 48 allowed the president to suspend civil liberties, issue laws without consulting the Reichstag and use the army to restore order in times of emergency.
What was the enabling act?
An act which allowed Hitler and cabinet power to sidestep the constitution and the Reichstag. It enabled laws such as the control of the legal system, abolition of all other political parties.
When was the enabling act?
23rd of March, 1933 and came into force the next day.
How did the Enabling act pass?
Deputies of the Reichstag were scheduled to meet on the 23rd of Match in Kroll opera house to vote. Paramilitary force (SA) prevented them from entering and voting against Hitler’s proposal.
What was the Night of the Long Knives?
Instability within the Nazi party caused the execution of Ernest Rohm (leader of SA), and members of the Nazi party. Hitler was worried about Rohm’s growing influence.
When was the night of the long knives?
30th of June, 1934
How did the night of the long Knives help Hitler rise to power?
It purged internal opposition, and demonstrated Hitler’s hard power and influence. An intimidation method and a threat
What was Der Fuhrer?
Refers to when Hitler abolished the office of president and assumed all powers of the state. A plebiscite was held in 1934 to see if people approved if this, and 90% voted in favour
