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Hitler's rise to power, 1929 to 1934
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In 1928 the Nazis were a tiny party. Five years later Hitler was Chancellor, and within eighteen months he was dictator.
The Depression
The Wall Street Crash (October 1929) led to US loans being recalled.
Unemployment in Germany soared to around 6 million by early 1933.
Desperate voters turned to extreme parties. In July 1932 the Nazis became the largest party in the Reichstag.
Unemployment in Germany soared to around 6 million by early 1933.
Desperate voters turned to extreme parties. In July 1932 the Nazis became the largest party in the Reichstag.
Becoming Chancellor
Hitler was not elected Chancellor. Conservative politicians, including von Papen, persuaded President Hindenburg to appoint him, believing they could control him.
Hitler became Chancellor on 30 January 1933.
Hitler became Chancellor on 30 January 1933.
Becoming dictator
Hitler secured power step by step.
Why was the Enabling Act so important?
- It let Hitler make laws without the Reichstag's approval.
- This removed the main check on his power.
- He used it to ban other parties and trade unions.
Answer: It gave Hitler the power to rule as a dictator legally.
Depression after 1929 boosted the Nazi vote. Hitler was appointed Chancellor on 30 January 1933 in a backroom deal. Reichstag Fire, Enabling Act, banning parties, Night of the Long Knives and Hindenburg's death made him Führer in 1934.
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