This document details the rise of Adolf Hitler and the National Socialist German Workers’ Party (NSDAP), also known as the Nazi Party, within the context of German history from 1918 to 1945. The analysis focuses on key events and strategies that led to Hitler’s appointment as Chancellor in January 1933. Key areas explored include the transformations within the German Workers’ Party, the aftermath of the Munich Putsch, the party’s reorganization, the impact of the Great Depression, the Nazis’ methods for gaining popular support, and the crucial political events of 1932-1933.
Changes to the German Workers’ Party (DAP)
NSDAP’s Surge in Popularity:
Hitler’s ascension to leadership in 1921 marked a turning point. His exceptional oratory skills captivated audiences and effectively conveyed his message.
His potent anti-Versailles Treaty rhetoric resonated deeply with Germans who felt betrayed by the terms of the treaty and resented the reparations imposed.
His anti-Semitic and anti-communist stances tapped into existing prejudices and fears, particularly those stemming from the 1917 Russian Revolution. Many Germans saw communism as a grave threat.
The party’s 25-point program, outlining its objectives, gained significant traction. Membership soared, exceeding 1,000 by 1920.
The party’s newspaper, Völkischer Beobachter (The People’s Observer), played a crucial role in shaping public opinion.
The Creation of the Sturmabteilung (SA):
The SA, or “storm troopers,” was established in 1921 under Ernst Röhm, comprised of WWI veterans who shared Hitler’s nationalist views and opposition to the Treaty of Versailles. They were united by their resentment over Germany’s perceived humiliation post-war. The financial burden of reparations (132 billion marks) further fueled their anger.
The SA engaged in various activities: physically confronting communists, disrupting rival political meetings, and playing a significant role in the Munich Putsch.
While effective in intimidating opponents, the SA’s aggressive tactics alienated some middle-class voters who viewed them as unruly and thuggish.
The Munich Putsch (1923)
Underlying Causes:
Widespread public anger towards the “November Criminals”—those perceived responsible for signing the Treaty of Versailles—and the treaty’s harsh terms. This included the territorial losses (e.g., West Prussia), war guilt clause, and the massive reparations.
The French occupation of the Ruhr area following Germany’s failure to meet reparations payments led to hyperinflation, devastating the German economy and pushing many into poverty. This greatly increased the unpopularity of the Weimar Republic government.
Hitler, observing Mussolini’s successful March on Rome, believed the NSDAP was prepared for a similar action. They had approximately 20,000 supporters and the crucial support of Erich Ludendorff, a WWI hero whose presence lent credibility to the party.
Sequence of Events:
On November 8, 1923, Hitler and the SA stormed the Bürgerbräukeller (a beer hall) in Munich, seizing Bavarian government and police leaders and demanding their allegiance.
President Friedrich Ebert declared a state of emergency, leading to a confrontation between the police and the Nazis. The ensuing violence resulted in the deaths of 14 Nazis.
Hitler and Ludendorff were arrested.
Consequences:
The trial that followed dramatically increased the NSDAP’s visibility and popularity. Hitler’s speeches during the trial were widely publicized, presented as attacks on the Weimar government, further galvanizing his supporters.
Ludendorff’s involvement enhanced the party’s respectability in the eyes of many Germans.
Despite the ban on the NSDAP, the party ran under a different name in the 1924 elections and secured 32 seats.
Hitler’s imprisonment (serving nine months of a five-year sentence) provided him with time to write Mein Kampf (My Struggle), which outlined his ideology and future plans. Crucially, he shifted his strategy from violent overthrow to seeking power through democratic means.
Reorganization of the Nazi Party (1924-1928)
Shift to a Democratic Strategy:
Hitler adopted a new strategy, focusing on winning power through the electoral process rather than through violent means. This involved the NSDAP participating in Reichstag (parliament) elections.
Party membership increased dramatically, reaching 100,000 by 1929.
Targeted Policies to Attract Voters:
The 25-point program was a central platform, promoting strong nationalism, the reversal of the Treaty of Versailles, and the rejection of communism and Judaism.
Joseph Goebbels, the party’s propaganda chief, masterfully exploited existing anti-Semitism, effectively using propaganda to target and mobilize this fear among voters.
The party created various organizations tailored to specific demographics: the Hitler Youth for young people, the Nazi Women’s League for women, ensuring broader appeal. Local Nazi leaders were appointed across various states to further enhance organizational strength and outreach.
Impact of the Great Depression (1929-1933)
Economic Catastrophe:
The Wall Street Crash of 1929 triggered a global economic crisis, severely impacting Germany. Unemployment soared, reaching over 50% among young people by 1933. Businesses crumbled due to the withdrawal of US loans, leading to widespread poverty and desperation.
Chancellor Heinrich Brüning’s austerity measures, including tax increases and cuts to unemployment benefits, further exacerbated the crisis and intensified public discontent.
Rise of Extremist Parties:
Brüning’s frequent use of Article 48 of the Weimar Constitution (allowing presidential rule without parliamentary consent) undermined public trust in the democratic system. He used this article 66 times in 1932 alone.
This fueled the growth of extremist parties on both the left (Communists) and the right (Nazis). The NSDAP’s membership reached 400,000 by 1930.
Nazi propaganda blamed Jews and Communists for the economic crisis, effectively scapegoating them and increasing the party’s appeal. This successfully shifted popular dissatisfaction from the failings of the Weimar Republic onto minority groups. The party’s Reichstag seats increased from 12 in 1928 to 107 in 1930.
Methods of Winning Support
Propaganda and Charismatic Leadership:
Goebbels’s sophisticated propaganda machine conveyed a powerful anti-communist, anti-Semitic, and anti-Versailles message that appealed to many Germans’ anxieties.
Hitler’s captivating speeches at numerous rallies across Germany resonated with massive crowds, especially younger voters who were attracted to the party’s marches and parades. This presented Hitler as a strong, decisive leader capable of resolving the nation’s crisis. The ongoing economic and political turmoil fueled the effectiveness of his message.
By July 1932, the NSDAP had doubled its previous vote share, gaining 230 seats in the Reichstag, making it the largest party. Eight newspapers disseminated the party’s propaganda across Germany.
The Role of the SA:
The SA’s 400,000 members participated in rallies, providing a visible display of Nazi strength and nationalism. They attracted voters by conveying the impression of a strong, organized force capable of taking action.
The SA offered jobs and support to unemployed Germans, thus presenting Hitler as a leader actively addressing the depression. Providing a sense of belonging and practical aid served as a significant draw.
However, the SA’s tactics, including disrupting opposition meetings and intimidating voters at polling stations, alienated some middle-class voters who disliked their thuggish behavior. These tactics, while effective in securing votes, did come at a cost.
Events Leading to Hitler’s Chancellorship (1932-1933)
Intense Political Maneuvering:
The 1932 presidential elections saw Hitler run against Paul von Hindenburg. Although Hitler lost, his strong showing (millions of votes) alarmed Hindenburg, who developed a strong dislike for him.
Franz von Papen, seeking political advantage, formed a coalition with the NSDAP in June 1932. However, this proved short-lived due to internal conflicts and Hindenburg’s opposition to Hitler.
Von Papen’s subsequent appointment as Chancellor was similarly unsuccessful, ultimately leading to his resignation as the Reichstag rejected his policies.
Kurt von Schleicher briefly succeeded Von Papen as Chancellor, but his attempts to suspend the constitution and establish a military dictatorship were exposed and resulted in his dismissal.
Faced with a lack of viable alternatives, Hindenburg was persuaded by von Papen to appoint Hitler as Chancellor, with von Papen serving as Vice-Chancellor, believing he could control Hitler. This proved to be a miscalculation.
Hitler’s Appointment:
On January 30, 1933, Hitler was appointed Chancellor of Germany, marking a pivotal moment in German history.
Conclusion
Hitler’s rise to power was a complex process involving a multitude of factors. He strategically exploited economic hardship, political instability, and public anxieties to gain support. The Nazis’ skillful use of propaganda, charismatic leadership, and paramilitary strength, combined with crucial political maneuvering, ultimately paved the way for Hitler’s Chancellorship and the subsequent establishment of the Nazi regime.