The Munich Putsch - 1923

What was the Munich Putsch and when did it take place?

The Munich putsch was Hitlers first attempted revolution in November of 1923. He attempted to overthrow the Weimar Republic and replace it with a Nazi government.

Why did Hitler attempt this?

He viewed the current government as weak due to their handling of the Ruhr and hyperinflation crisis. He assumed the public would feel the same and follow him in his attempt however he misjudged how much support his still minor party actually had. He also had the support of wartime leader General ludendorff.

What happened during the Munich Putsch?

On the 8th of November 1923, storm troopers forced their way into a political meeting in the Munich Beer Hall. The Nazi’s planned to take over Munich and march into Berlin. Khar, the prime minister of Bavaria was forced at gunpoint to give support to the revolution. Then on the 9th of November, Khar went back on his promise as Hitler marched through the streets of Munich to gain support. Armed police opened fire, killing 16 Nazi’s.

Hitler’s trial

On the 26th of February, Hitler was placed on trial for treason. He used his trial as a propaganda exercise, generating publicity for his views and media attention. At the end of his trial, Hitler was charged for five years in prison but only ended up serving nine months due to good behaviour.

In what ways was the Munich Putsch a failure?

The Army remained loyal to the Weimar Republic. Both Hitler and Ludendorff were arrested and charged with high treason. The loyalty of Bavarian Politicians had been overestimated. Hitler had miscalculated the mood of the German people and how much support the Nazi party actually had as the public didn’t rise to support him. The Nazi party was then banned and Hitler was branded as a criminal and was then imprisoned.

In what ways was the Munich Putsch a success?

The trial gave Hitler the opportunity to gain publicity for his ideas. Hitler also used his time in prison to write Mein Kampf, a book highlighting his life and ideas. The trial showed that Hitler had sympathisers within the judiciary. Hitler only ended up serving nine months in great comfort and Landsberg castle.