Hitlers early career

Adolf Hitler

Leader of the Nazi Party who fought in World War One and was profoundly affected by Germany's surrender.

Iron Cross

A military award for bravery that Hitler won twice during World War One.

November Criminals

Term used by Germans who believed politicians betrayed the country by signing the armistice in November 1918.

Treaty of Versailles

Agreement that blamed and punished Germany for starting World War One.

German Workers' Party (DAP)

The political party Hitler joined in 1919, which later became the Nazi Party.

National Socialist German Workers Party (NSDAP)

The new name for the DAP in 1920, commonly known as the Nazi Party.

25-Point Programme

A list of policies developed by the Nazi Party outlining their beliefs and goals.

Führer

The concept of a single leader with complete power, rejecting democracy.

Social Darwinism

The belief that the Aryan race was superior and that Jews were 'subhuman.'

Autarky

The idea that Germany should be economically self-sufficient.

Lebensraum

The need for 'living space' for the German nation to expand.

SA (Sturmabteilung)

The Nazi Party's private army, also known as Storm Troopers or Brownshirts.

Munich Putsch

Hitler's failed coup attempt in November 1923 to take control of Munich.

Mein Kampf

Hitler's autobiography and manifesto written during his imprisonment, outlining his political beliefs.

Bamberg Conference

A 1926 meeting to resolve tensions within the Nazi Party regarding its policies.

Fuhrerprinzip

The principle that the party leader has absolute control and all members must follow his directives.

Hyperinflation Crisis

Economic turmoil in Germany during the early 1920s that contributed to the rise of extremist parties.

Joseph Goebbels

The Nazi Party's chief propagandist who developed effective propaganda techniques.

Dawes Plan

A 1924 plan that helped stabilize the German economy by restructuring reparations payments.

Weimar Republic

The democratic government in Germany that faced numerous challenges and crises during its existence.