Overview
This lecture explains the political, economic, and social factors that enabled Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party to seize power, leading to Hitler's appointment as Chancellor of Germany in January 1933.
Economic Crisis and the Rise of Fascism
- The Wall Street Crash of 1929 caused economic collapse in Germany due to its reliance on US loans (Dawes Plan).
- The US recalled loans, triggering mass unemployment in Germany, reaching 6.1 million by January 1933.
- Economic hardship led many Germans to distrust democracy and wish for a strong, totalitarian government.
Electoral Success and Propaganda
- The Nazi Party (NSDAP) gained 18.3% of votes in 1930, becoming the largest party with 37%-38% by July 1932.
- Chancellor Brüning’s unpopular policies failed to address unemployment, pushing voters towards extremist parties.
- Goebbels, head of Nazi propaganda, used media, rallies, and speeches to boost Hitler’s popularity.
Political Instability and Leadership Struggles
- Presidential elections in 1932 showed Hitler’s rising popularity, as he received up to 36% of the vote.
- Brüning’s harsh economic policies lost support, leading to his resignation in May 1932.
- Von Papen, a friend of President Hindenburg, became Chancellor but lacked public or Reichstag support.
- Elections in July and November 1932 saw continued street violence and a fragmented Reichstag.
Hindenburg’s Decisions and Hitler’s Appointment
- Hindenburg tried to avoid appointing Hitler by cycling through Chancellors BrĂĽning, von Papen, and von Schleicher.
- None could gain a stable majority or solve economic and political crises.
- Hindenburg and his advisors underestimated Hitler, believing they could control him as Chancellor.
- On 30 January 1933, Hindenburg appointed Hitler Chancellor, with von Papen as Vice-Chancellor.
Key Reasons for Hitler’s Success
- Hitler’s oratory and the Nazi promise of national unity attracted mass support.
- Weaknesses of the Weimar Constitution (proportional representation, Article 48 abuse) undermined democracy.
- The Depression discredited moderate parties, making Hitler’s radical solutions appealing.
- Elites’ underestimation of Hitler and political scheming enabled his rise.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Chancellor — Head of government in Germany, appointed by the President.
- Weimar Republic — Germany’s democratic government from 1919–1933.
- NSDAP — National Socialist German Workers' Party (Nazi Party).
- Reichstag — German parliament.
- Article 48 — Allowed the President to rule by decree in an emergency, bypassing parliament.
- SA/SS — Nazi paramilitary organizations.
- Wall Street Crash — 1929 US stock market crash triggering the Great Depression.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the sequence of Chancellors from 1930–1933 and their policies.
- Practice exam questions explaining why the Depression aided Nazi rise.
- Read about how Hitler consolidated power after becoming Chancellor.