Section A: Early Development of the Nazi Party, 1920-22

What party did Hitler first investigate after WWI?

The German Worker’s Party (DAP).

Who founded the DAP and when?

Anton Drexler, in February 1919.

When did Hitler join the DAP and what was his member number?

19 September 1919; he was the 55th member.

What position did Hitler gain in January 1920?

Head of party propaganda.

How long did it take for Hitler to become leader of the DAP?

Within 2 years of joining.

When was the Twenty-Five Point Programme announced?

February 1920

Who wrote the Twenty-Five Point Programme?

Anton Drexler and Adolf Hitler.

Name two key demands from the programme.

Union of all Germans in a Greater Germany; exclusion of Jewish people from German citizenship.

What political mix did the programme represent?

A mix of right-wing nationalist and left-wing socialist policies.

How did Hitler deliver his speeches to attract supporters?

He started slowly, built to a passionate climax, and used eye contact and hand gestures.

How many times did Hitler appear as a key speaker between Nov 1919–Nov 1920?

31 times at 46 gatherings

How did Hitler’s speeches affect party growth?

Membership grew from a few dozen to 3,000 by the end of 1920.

What organisational changes did Hitler make in January 1920?

Opened a permanent office in Munich run by Rudolf Schussler.

Why did Hitler rename the party NSDAP?

To appeal to a wider range of people (nationalists and workers).

What symbols did Hitler introduce for the party?

The swastika logo and the straight-armed salute.

What was the name of the NSDAP newspaper, and when was it bought?

Volkischer Beobachter (People’s Observer), bought in December 1920.

Who replaced Drexler as leader of the NSDAP in July 1921?

 Adolf Hitler.

Name three key figures Hitler appointed and their roles.

Rudolf Hess (deputy), Hermann Goering (WW1 hero), Ernst Röhm (SA leader).

Who established Der Stürmer, and what was its audience?

Julius Streicher; aimed at the working class.

What was the purpose of the SA, and when was it formed?

Formed August 1921 to protect Nazi meetings, disrupt rivals, and project power.