Why did hitler gain power in 1933

Question 1

What economic event in 1929 triggered a crisis for the Weimar Republic?

Answer 1

The Wall Street Crash of 1929 triggered a global economic depression, causing mass unemployment and economic collapse in Germany.

Question 2

How did the economic crisis after 1929 affect German society?

Answer 2

The economic crisis led to mass unemployment (over 6 million by 1932), poverty, and widespread dissatisfaction with the Weimar government.

Question 3

What impact did the economic crisis have on political stability in Germany after 1929?

Answer 3

The crisis destabilized German politics, undermined confidence in democratic institutions, and increased support for extremist parties like the Nazis and Communists.

Question 4

Which political parties gained support as a result of the economic crisis after 1929?

Answer 4

The Nazi Party (NSDAP) and the Communist Party (KPD) gained significant support, with the Nazis rising from 18.3% in 1930 to 37.3% in July 1932 elections.

Question 5

What was the role of President Hindenburg in the political problems of the Weimar Republic after 1929?

Answer 5

President Hindenburg and other conservative elites undermined Weimar democracy by appointing chancellors who ruled by emergency decree, bypassing the Reichstag.

Question 6

How did the Weimar government respond to the economic crisis after 1929?

Answer 6

The government relied on unpopular policies such as austerity and cuts to unemployment benefits, which further alienated the population.

Question 7

What role did coalition politics play in the problems of the Weimar Republic after 1929?

Answer 7

Successive coalition governments were weak and indecisive, unable to form stable majorities or address the crisis effectively.

Question 8

How did fear of communism influence Weimar politics after 1929?

Answer 8

Fear of a communist revolution drove many conservatives and middle-class voters to support right-wing parties, including the Nazis.

Question 9

What was the significance of the failure of mainstream parties to address the crisis?

Answer 9

The failure of mainstream parties to solve economic and political problems led to a loss of faith in democracy and increased support for radical solutions.

Question 10

How did the Nazi Party exploit the problems facing Weimar politicians after 1929?

Answer 10

The Nazi Party capitalized on economic hardship, political instability, and fear of communism to present themselves as a force for national renewal and order.

Question 11

What effect did the depression have on the legitimacy of the Weimar Republic?

Answer 11

The depression eroded the legitimacy of the Weimar Republic, making it appear weak and incapable of protecting German interests.

Question 12

By 1932, how many Germans were unemployed, and what did this mean for the Weimar government?

Answer 12

By 1932, over 6 million Germans were unemployed, leading to mass discontent and a surge in support for extremist parties.

Question 13

What was the impact of the economic crisis on the left-wing parties in Germany?

Answer 13

The economic crisis critically weakened the left, as the Social Democrats (SPD) were associated with the failing government, and the Communists (KPD) were seen as too radical by many.

Question 14

What did the rise of the Nazis and Communists indicate about the Weimar Republic after 1929?

Answer 14

The rise of extremist parties showed deep polarization and the failure of the Weimar system to command broad support.

Question 15

What was the significance of the Reichstag elections between 1930 and 1933 for Weimar politicians?

Answer 15

The elections saw a dramatic increase in votes for the Nazis and Communists, making it difficult for moderate parties to form stable governments.

Question 16

How did the actions of conservative elites contribute to the problems of Weimar politicians after 1929?

Answer 16

Conservative elites, including Hindenburg, undermined democracy by supporting authoritarian solutions and eventually appointing Hitler as Chancellor.

Question 17

What major event after 1929 contributed to the growth of support for Nazism in Germany?

Answer 17

The economic crash of 1929 and the subsequent Great Depression led to mass unemployment—over 6 million Germans out of work by 1932—causing widespread social and political instability. This crisis persuaded many Germans to abandon their traditional voting habits and support the Nazi party, which presented itself as a dynamic movement capable of rescuing Germany from economic disaster and political chaos.

Question 18

How did the Nazi party translate economic dissatisfaction into increased support after 1929?

Answer 18

The Nazis turned economic dissatisfaction into a protest movement against the existing political and social system. Their promises to destroy the Treaty of Versailles, restore German pride, and provide strong leadership resonated with a broad spectrum of Germans, including those disillusioned by the failures of the Weimar Republic.

Question 19

What were the Nazi party’s vote shares in Reichstag elections from 1930 to 1933?

Answer 19

September 1930: 18.3% (107 seats) July 1932: 37.3% (230 seats) November 1932: 33.1% (196 seats) March 1933: 43.9% (288 seats). This rapid rise reflected their growing appeal as a protest party and their ability to attract support across class and gender lines.

Question 20

Which social groups were less likely to vote for the Nazis during their rise after 1929?

Answer 20

City dwellers, the unemployed, and Catholics were less likely to vote for the Nazis, while Protestants in rural areas were more likely to support them. The Nazis’ support base was strongest among the middle classes and rural Protestants, but their message reached many groups.

Question 21

What role did fear of communism play in the growth of Nazi support after 1929?

Answer 21

The widespread fear and mistrust of communism, especially after the Spartacist and Munich revolutions of 1919, made the Nazis’ anti-communist stance attractive to the middle class and conservative elites. The Nazis exploited this fear, presenting themselves as the only force capable of preventing a communist takeover and restoring order.

Question 22

How did the Nazis use legality and violence to gain power after 1929?

Answer 22

After the failed Munich Putsch in 1923, Hitler concluded that power must be achieved legally. The Nazis participated in elections and presented themselves as respectable, while simultaneously using the SA (Stormtroopers) to intimidate and violently suppress opponents. This combination of legality and violence helped them gain respectability and power.

Question 23

What was the significance of the Harzburg Front in 1929 for the Nazis?

Answer 23

The Nazis formed an electoral alliance with nationalists, the Pan German League, and the Stahlhelm in opposition to reparations (the Harzburg Front), gaining respectability and access to conservative middle-class voters. This alliance also provided the Nazis with resources and legitimacy.

Question 24

Why was conservative collaboration critical to the Nazi rise after 1929?

Answer 24

Conservative collaboration gave the Nazis a façade of legality and respectability, making their seizure of power appear as a national revival. Conservatives believed they could control Hitler and use his mass support to restore traditional values, but instead, their support helped the Nazis dismantle democracy and consolidate a dictatorship.

Question 25

What factors made the Nazi party appealing to a broad section of German society after 1929?

Answer 25

The Nazis promised national regeneration, opposed the Treaty of Versailles, addressed economic and political crises, and used propaganda effectively. Their ideology combined traditional German values with modern techniques, including mass rallies and media campaigns, making them attractive to many Germans seeking stability and pride.

Question 26

How did the Nazi party’s message differ from other Weimar parties in the early 1930s?

Answer 26

The Nazis presented themselves as a movement rather than a traditional party, offering a catch-all ideology that could appeal to various grievances. Their message was more dynamic, focusing on national unity, strength, and the creation of a Volksgemeinschaft (people’s community).

Question 27

What was the impact of the Great Depression on political polarization in Germany after 1929?

Answer 27

The Great Depression intensified political polarization, with the Nazi and Communist parties both gaining votes at the expense of moderate parties. The Nazis benefited most, as their promises of strong leadership, economic recovery, and national revival attracted desperate voters.

Question 28

How did the Nazis gain support among the Mittelstand (lower middle class) after 1929?

Answer 28

The Nazis’ destruction of the communist threat, restoration of law and order, and promises of economic recovery appealed to small traders, craft workers, and shopkeepers, who feared social decline and competition from big business and organized labor.

Question 29

What role did propaganda play in the Nazi rise after 1929?

Answer 29

Nazi propaganda, orchestrated by Joseph Goebbels, reinforced popular prejudices, attacked opponents, and promoted the cult of Hitler as Führer. The use of modern media, mass rallies, and symbols made their message omnipresent and persuasive.

Question 30

What was the effect of the Nazis’ anti-Versailles stance on their popularity after 1929?

Answer 30

The Nazis’ rejection of the Treaty of Versailles, which many Germans saw as humiliating and unjust, was extremely popular. Their promises to restore Germany’s borders, military strength, and national pride resonated with the public.

Question 31

How did Nazi electoral support change between September 1930 and March 1933?

Answer 31

Nazi electoral support grew dramatically, from 18.3% (107 seats) in September 1930 to 43.9% (288 seats) in March 1933, making them the largest party in the Reichstag and paving the way for Hitler’s appointment as Chancellor and the subsequent consolidation of power.

Question 32

What was the significance of the Enabling Act of March 1933 for the Nazis?

Answer 32

The Enabling Act allowed Hitler to pass laws without Reichstag or presidential consent, effectively giving him dictatorial powers. Its passage, supported by the Centre Party and conservatives, marked the legal foundation for the Nazi dictatorship.

Question 33

How did the Nazis benefit from the failures of the Weimar political system after 1929?

Answer 33

The Nazis capitalized on the Weimar government’s inability to address economic and political crises. Their dynamic message and promises of national renewal attracted protest votes from those disillusioned with democracy and traditional parties.

Question 34

What was the role of the SA in the Nazi rise after 1929?

Answer 34

The SA (Stormtroopers) used street violence and intimidation against political opponents, helping the Nazis appear strong and capable of restoring order. Their actions also pressured rivals and demonstrated the Nazis’ willingness to use force.

Question 35

Which election marked the Nazis’ peak share of the vote before Hitler’s appointment as Chancellor?

Answer 35

The July 1932 Reichstag election, where the Nazis received 37.3% of the vote and 230 seats, marked their peak before Hitler became Chancellor. Although their share dipped in November 1932, they remained the largest party.

Question 36

How did the Nazis’ message of Volksgemeinschaft (people’s community) contribute to their support after 1929?

Answer 36

The idea of a Volksgemeinschaft promised inclusion, unity, and regeneration for most Germans, making the Nazi movement attractive during times of crisis. However, this community was exclusive, targeting Jews, communists, and other minorities for exclusion or persecution.

Question 37

What was the impact of the Nazis’ alliance with conservative elites on their path to power after 1929?

Answer 37

Alliances with conservative elites provided legitimacy, reassured the middle class, and secured the support needed for Hitler’s appointment as Chancellor and the passage of the Enabling Act. These alliances helped the Nazis dismantle opposition and consolidate control over the state.

Question 38

When was Adolf Hitler appointed Chancellor of Germany, and under what circumstances did this occur?

Answer 38

Adolf Hitler was appointed Chancellor of Germany on 30 January 1933 he was chosen by President Paul von Hindenburg to head a cabinet of a coalition of the right, following a period of political instability and the failure of previous governments (Brüning, von Schleicher, von Papen) to command confidence in the Reichstag or with Hindenburg

Question 39

What political and social factors contributed to Hitler’s rise to the position of Chancellor in 1933?

Answer 39

Hitler’s rise was facilitated by widespread dissatisfaction with the Weimar Republic the economic crisis following the 1929 Wall Street Crash mass unemployment (over 6 million by 1932) fear of communism

Question 40

How did the Nazi Party’s electoral performance change between 1930 and March 1933?

Answer 40

The Nazi Party’s share of the vote increased significantly: 18.3% (107 seats) in September 1930 37.3% (230 seats) in July 1932 33.1% (196 seats) in November 1932 and 43.9% (288 seats) in March 1933 this growth reflected growing public support amid economic and political crisis

Question 41

What role did political intrigue and alliances with conservative elites play in Hitler’s appointment as Chancellor?

Answer 41

Conservative elites, including Franz von Papen and leading business and military figures, believed they could control Hitler and use his popular support to stabilize the government they persuaded President Hindenburg to appoint Hitler as Chancellor, thinking he would be a puppet in a conservative-dominated cabinet

Question 42

How did the Nazis present themselves to gain broader support before Hitler’s appointment as Chancellor?

Answer 42

The Nazis used a combination of superficial legality (participating in elections) propaganda and alliances with nationalist and conservative groups (such as the Harzburg Front) to appear respectable and attract middle-class and establishment support, while still using violence and intimidation through the SA

Question 43

Why did many Germans support or accept Hitler’s appointment as Chancellor in 1933?

Answer 43

Many Germans were disillusioned with the failures of the Weimar Republic feared communism and were attracted to Nazi promises of national regeneration, economic recovery, and the restoration of German pride the Nazis’ ability to project an image of order and renewal was persuasive to a population in crisis

Question 44

What was the significance of the economic depression in Hitler’s rise to power?

Answer 44

The economic depression following the 1929 Wall Street Crash caused mass unemployment and hardship undermined faith in democratic institution and created fertile ground for extremist parties like the Nazis, whose promises of recovery and strength resonated with desperate voters

Question 45

How did Hitler’s own strategy for gaining power change after the failed Munich Putsch of 1923?

Answer 45

After the failed Munich Putsch, Hitler concluded that the Nazis could only gain power legally rather than by force he reorganized the party to contest elections and build a mass movement, using propaganda and legal means to achieve power

Question 46

What was the role of the SA (Sturmabteilung) in the Nazi rise to power before Hitler became Chancellor?

Answer 46

The SA acted as the Nazi Party’s paramilitary wing

Question 47

What was the significance of the Harzburg Front alliance for Hitler’s political ambitions?

Answer 47

The Harzburg Front alliance (1929) with nationalist and conservative groups gave the Nazis respectability access to influential networks and the ability to appeal to middle-class voters, which was crucial in their rise to power

Question 48

How did Hitler’s personal ideology and leadership style contribute to his appointment as Chancellor?

Answer 48

Hitler’s ideology, emphasizing nationalism, anti-communism, and the promise of a Volksgemeinschaft (national community), as well as his charismatic leadership and ability to unite disparate right-wing and nationalist groups, made him an attractive figure to those seeking strong leadership amid crisis

Question 49

What limitations did Hitler face upon his appointment as Chancellor in January 1933?

Answer 49

Upon his appointment, Hitler led a coalition government with only three Nazis in the cabinet, while President Hindenburg, Vice-Chancellor von Papen, and other conservative elites expected to restrain him

Question 50

What was the immediate reaction of the Nazi Party and Hitler after his appointment as Chancellor?

Answer 50

After his appointment, Hitler addressed the German people in moderate tones the Reichstag was dissolved and new elections were ordered these actions were designed to consolidate his position and gain greater legitimacy

Question 51

Why did conservative elites believe they could control Hitler after his appointment as Chancellor?

Answer 51

Conservative elites underestimated Hitler, believing his mass support could be harnessed for their own ends and that he could be contained within a conservative-dominated government structure

Question 52

What was the role of President Hindenburg in Hitler’s appointment as Chancellor?

Answer 52

President Hindenburg, influenced by advisors like von Papen and under pressure from conservative and nationalist elites, reluctantly appointed Hitler as Chancellor, believing this would stabilize the government and contain the Nazi movement

Question 53

What event marked Hitlers appointment as Chancellor and the start of Nazi consolidation of power?

Answer 53

Hitler was appointed Chancellor on 30 January 1933. He headed a coalition government and began consolidating Nazi power through both legal and violent measures. Immediately after, the Reichstag was dissolved and new elections were called.

Question 54

What was the Decree for the Protection of the German People, and when was it issued?

Answer 54

Issued on 4 February 1933, this decree restricted freedom of the press and assembly. It was used to suppress political opposition and control public discourse.

Question 55

What was the significance of the Reichstag Fire on 27 February 1933?

Answer 55

The Reichstag Fire was blamed on communists and provided Hitler with the pretext to demand emergency powers. This led to the Decree for the Protection of People and State, which suspended civil liberties and allowed indefinite detention without trial. It facilitated the mass arrest of political opponents, especially communists.

Question 56

What did the Decree for the Protection of People and State (28 February 1933) enable?

Answer 56

This emergency decree suspended key civil rights including freedom of speech, press, and assembly. It allowed police to detain suspects indefinitely and enabled the Nazi regime to arrest, imprison, and torture thousands of political opponents, especially communists and socialists.

Question 57

What were the results and significance of the March 1933 general election?

Answer 57

The Nazis achieved 43.9% of the vote (288 seats) but did not secure an overall majority. With their nationalist allies, they still lacked the two-thirds majority needed to alter the constitution, leading to further intimidation and manipulation to consolidate power.

Question 58

What was the Enabling Act (23 March 1933) and why was it critical?

Answer 58

The Enabling Act allowed Hitlers cabinet to enact laws without Reichstag or presidential approval for four years. It was passed by 444 to 94 votes after intimidation and exclusion of communist deputies, effectively ending parliamentary democracy and giving Hitler dictatorial powers.

Question 59

How did the Nazis eliminate trade union opposition in May 1933?

Answer 59

On 2 May 1933, the offices of socialist trade unions were stormed by the SA. Unions were dissolved and replaced by the German Labor Front (DAF), destroying independent worker representation and bringing labor under Nazi control.

Question 60

What was the process of Gleichschaltung and how was it implemented?

Answer 60

Gleichschaltung, or "coordination," was the systematic alignment of all institutions—political, social, cultural—under Nazi control. This was achieved through banning opposition parties, dissolving organizations, purging the civil service, and enforcing Nazi conformity across society.

Question 61

What agreement was made between the Nazi regime and the Catholic Church in July 1933?

Answer 61

A Concordat was signed in July 1933. The Catholic Church agreed to abstain from political activity in exchange for guarantees of religious freedom. This reduced potential church opposition to the regime.

Question 62

What happened to political parties other than the NSDAP by July 1933?

Answer 62

All other political parties were either banned or voluntarily disbanded. By early July 1933, Germany became a one-party state with only the Nazi Party legally permitted.

Question 63

What was the Night of the Long Knives (30 June 1934)?

Answer 63

The Night of the Long Knives was a purge in which around 200 SA leaders and other political opponents, including Ernst Röhm and conservative critics, were killed. This eliminated the SA as a rival, reassured the army, and consolidated Hitlers control over the Nazi Party and state.

Question 64

What was the significance of President Hindenburgs death on 2 August 1934?

Answer 64

After Hindenburg died, Hitler merged the positions of Chancellor and President, declaring himself Führer and Reich Chancellor. The army swore an oath of personal loyalty to Hitler, completing the process of dictatorship.

Question 65

What was the Marburg Speech (17 June 1934) and its consequences?

Answer 65

Vice Chancellor von Papen delivered a speech criticizing Nazi excesses and calling for an end to the "second revolution." This open dissent from conservative elites contributed to the justification for the Night of the Long Knives, after which conservative critics were silenced or eliminated.

Question 66

How did the armys relationship with Hitler change after August 1934?

Answer 66

The army swore an oath of unconditional loyalty to Hitler personally, not to the constitution or state. This tied the military to the Nazi regime and minimized the likelihood of military opposition.

Question 67

What legal change followed the Night of the Long Knives to legitimize the purge?

Answer 67

On 3 July 1934, the Law Concerning Measures for the Defense of the State was enacted. It retroactively legalized all actions taken during the purge as acts of state self-defense.

Question 68

What was the impact of the consolidation of power on German society by the end of 1934?

Answer 68

By the end of 1934, all major sources of opposition—political parties, trade unions, the army, and most religious institutions—were neutralized or brought under Nazi control. Hitlers dictatorship was firmly established, and the regime could now pursue radical policies with little internal resistance.