2.2 - Munich Putsch and lean years, 1923-29

The Munich Putsch — Causes

Date: November 1923 | Long-term: resentment of Versailles, Weimar Republic unpopular. Medium-term: inspired by Mussolini's march on Rome in Italy. Short-term: hyperinflation + French occupation of the Ruhr left Germany in crisis. Hitler thought the time was right.

The Munich Putsch — Events

8 November 1923: Hitler burst into a beer hall in Munich, fired a gun, and forced Bavarian leaders to support him. Next day, marched on Munich — met by police. Shots fired, 14 Nazis and 4 police killed. Hitler fled, was arrested 2 days later.

The Munich Putsch — Consequences

Short-term FAILURE: Hitler sentenced to 5 years (served 9 months), NSDAP banned. | Long-term SUCCESS: Used trial for publicity, wrote Mein Kampf in prison, realised he needed to win power through elections not force. NSDAP ban lifted Feb 1925.

Mein Kampf (1924)

Written in prison. Set out Hitler's key beliefs: Aryan race destined to rule, Jews a conspiracy undermining Germany, need for Lebensraum (living space) in the East, anti-democracy, strong nationalist Germany. Became the blueprint for the Nazi Party.

Nazi Party Reorganisation (1924–28)

Hitler rebuilt the party after prison. Created the SS (loyal personal bodyguard), expanded the SA to 400,000, divided Germany into 35 regions each with a Gauleiter, set up the Hitler Youth, got funding from big businesses. Party became highly organised.

Why the Nazis Had Limited Support (1924–28)

Stresemann's economic recovery meant people didn't need extremist parties. Locarno Pact + League of Nations made Germany respected again. Hindenburg (war hero) as president boosted the Republic. In 1928, Nazis won just 2.6% of the vote.