The Creation of the Nazi Dictatorship

Flashcards reviewing Hitler's consolidation of power in Nazi Germany.

What was Hitler's primary goal after becoming Chancellor?

To establish a dictatorship.

Why was Hitler's government initially weak?

It was a coalition government.

What event did the Nazis exploit to suppress the communist threat?

The Reichstag fire.

What decree suspended civil freedoms and gave power to the secret police?

The Decree for the Protection of the People and the State.

How did the Nazis use the Reichstag fire to their advantage?

They blamed the communists and arrested thousands to eliminate a political threat.

What was the significance of the Decree for the Protection of the People and the State?

It suspended civil liberties and allowed the Nazis to suppress opposition, especially the communists.

What was the result of the March 1933 elections for the Nazi Party?

The Nazis attained only 43.9% of the votes.

What was Von Papen's prediction about Hitler in February 1933?

That they would push Hitler into a corner within two months.

What was the purpose of the Enabling Act?

To destroy the constitution and establish Hitler's legal dictatorship.

What was the role of Goebbels in the Nazi regime?

Head of the Ministry for Public Enlightenment + Propaganda, controlling all media.

What agreement did Hitler negotiate with the Centre Party?

The Centre Party's support for the Enabling Act in exchange for assurances of continued existence, protection of Catholic liberties, religious schools, and civil servants.

What was the significance of Potsdam Day?

It conveyed the image of legality for Hitler's regime.

What powers did the Enabling Act grant to the government?

Emergency powers for 4 years, enabling the cabinet to pass decrees without the President’s involvement.

What is 'Gleichschaltung'?

Co-ordination, bringing into line with Nazi ideology.

What was the aim of Gleichschaltung?

To ensure government control of all key aspects of society.

What happened to regional state governments under Nazi control?

They were infiltrated, dissolved, reformed with acceptable majorities (Nazis). Parliaments were abolished.

What occurred during the one-day boycott of Jewish shops on April 1, 1933?

A one-day boycott of Jewish shops

What was the Law for the Restoration of the Professional Civil Service?

It led to all institutions being purged of 'alien elements.'

What was the DAF?

German Labour Front, into which all German unions were incorporated.

What happened to political opponents under the Nazi regime?

They were divided, demoralized, and weakened by repression. Parties were banned.

What was the Law against the Formation of New Parties?

It made Germany a one-party state.

How was the removal of political opponents achieved?

Through intimidation + violence ‘from below’ by the SA and ‘terror’ from above as the Nazis.

What was the Concordat between the state and Vatican?

Banned the Church from political activity; in return, the government would protect religious freedom.

What was the significance of the November 1933 election?

Nazi candidates for the Reichstag won 92% of votes.

Why was the army a problem for Hitler?

It was the only group powerful enough to unseat him.

Who led to the SA?

Ernst Rohm.

Why did Hitler use the SS to crush the SA?

The SA were proving a threat, and Rohm threatened a 'Second Revolution.'

What was the 'Second Revolution'?

The SA + left-wing members of the Party envisaged greater social + economic reforms + the creation of a ‘people’s army.’ Wanted to merge SA and army.

Why was the army so important to Hitler

They were key to consolidating Power.

What was The Night of the Long Knives?

The most dramatic + most significant single event during the establishment of Hitler’s supremacy.

Why did Hitler carry out the Night of the Long Knives?

He had less need for the rebellious SA and their radical ideas; he now had the SS.

What were some of the conservative actions of the Nazi government.

The murder of Edgar Jung and the house arrest of Von Papen.

How did the Night of the Long Knives strengthen Hitler's position?

He reassured his conservative supporters but also intimidated his conservative critics.

What was the army's reaction to the Night of the Long Knives?

Army generals were conciliated by weakening of the army's rival (SA).

What oath did the army take after Hindenburg's death?

Oath of personal loyalty to the Fuhrer.

What new role did Hitler assume on August 1, 1934?

Head of State.

What happened to the roles of President and Chancellor?

They merged to form 'Fuhrer.'

When did Hindenburg die?

August 2, 1934.

What were Nazi members promised?

Positions in power.

What did Hitler need to do to pass laws?

He needed majority support