The Nazi Party Into Power 1932-33

Weimar In Crisis Main source of crisis was the impact of Great Depression Unemployment Bank and business crash Extreme ideas became popular Final undermining of Weimar – no leadership

Rise in Nazi Popularity Identified scapegoats – Jews and Communists Promised to reverse Versailles Promised economic recovery SA became more violent and intimidating

Crisis in the Democratic System 1930 – No coalition can be formed – President von Hindenburg rules by decree June 1932 – v. Hind. appoints von Papen as Chancellor – unpopular and no military support Nov 1932 – von Papen’s election result not enough to get a majority – but Nazi support declines! Dec 1932 – v Hind. appoints von Schleicher – unable to organise a coalition govt. Dismissed 1933 – what viable alternatives are left?

Hitler’s Political Credibility Runs for President in April 1932 Wins 13 million votes against von Hindenburg’s 19 million votes Political credibility rises Now seen as a legitimate alternative

Hitler into Power The succession of failed Chancellors gives Von Hindenburg limited choices He plans with von Papen to make Hitler Chancellor … … but limit his power. von Papen will be Vice-Chancellor and the cabinet will be filled with von Papen’s supporters They felt they could control Hitler …

Hitler in Power Immediately calls election to try and secure Reichstag majority Reichstag Fire 1933 helps propaganda Fierce election campaign – propaganda, intimidation, use of SA Results do not give Nazi’s the necessary majority Need Nationalist Party support to gain power Now in a position to secure their position

Law for the Protection of People and State “Restrictions on personal liberty, on the right of free expression of opinion, including freedom of the press; on the rights of assembly and association; and violations of the privacy of postal, telegraphic and telephone communications …”