Impact of Nazi Rule - Case Study: Nazi Germany (Chapter 2)

Vocabulary-style flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to how the Nazi Party consolidated power in Germany (Reichstag Fire, Decree, Enabling Act, Gleichschaltung, Night of the Long Knives, Oath of Allegiance, Fuehrer, and related entities).

Reichstag Fire

The 27 Feb 1933 fire at the Reichstag building, blamed on communists and used by Hitler to demand emergency measures.

Reichstag Fire Decree

Decree for the Protection of People and State; suspended civil liberties and gave police broad powers to arrest opponents.

Enabling Act

March 1933 law allowing Hitler to pass laws without Reichstag approval; required two-thirds support and lasted four years.

Gleichschaltung (Coordination)

Policy to align all institutions under Nazi control; included banning Jews from civil service, banning trade unions, and eliminating political pluralism.

Night of the Long Knives

1934 purge targeting the SA leadership and rivals to consolidate Hitler’s power and gain support of the army and industrialists.

SA (Sturmabteilung)

Nazi Party’s paramilitary wing; its purge during the Night of the Long Knives reduced internal threats.

Hindenburg Oath / Army Oath of Allegiance

After Hindenburg’s death, the army swore loyalty to Hitler; the army stayed out of politics, strengthening Hitler’s control.

Fuehrer

Hitler’s title meaning Supreme Leader; represents the consolidation of personal power and rule above law.

One-Party State

A state in which the Nazi Party is the sole legal political party, established through Gleichschaltung.

DNVP (German National People's Party)

Party that allied with the Nazis to help Nazis secure a majority in the Reichstag.

Centre Party

Catholic party that cooperated with the Nazis, aiding passage of the Enabling Act.