Nazi Germany (1933-1939)

Adolf Hitler

Born in Austria in 1889, he became the leader of the Nazi Party and ultimately Chancellor of Germany.

Nazi Party

Originally the German Workers’ Party, it became the National Socialist German Workers’ Party (NSDAP) in 1920.

Beer Hall Putsch

A failed coup attempt by Hitler in Munich in 1923 to overthrow the Weimar government.

Mein Kampf

A book written by Hitler while in prison in 1925, outlining his ideology, including extreme nationalism and anti-Semitism.

Great Depression

The economic crisis beginning in 1929, leading to widespread unemployment and the rise of extremist parties in Germany.

Joseph Goebbels

Hitler’s propaganda minister, who played a key role in spreading Nazi ideas through media and propaganda.

1932 Presidential Election

Hitler ran against Paul von Hindenburg but lost, although the Nazis became the largest party in parliament.

Reichstag Fire

A fire in February 1933 blamed on a Communist, used by Hitler to justify a crackdown on political opposition.

Enabling Act

Passed in March 1933, it allowed Hitler to rule by decree, effectively giving him dictatorial powers.

Night of the Long Knives

In June 1934, a purge ordered by Hitler to eliminate potential rivals within the Nazi Party.

Nuremberg Laws

Anti-Semitic laws passed in 1935 that stripped Jews of their citizenship and rights in Germany.

Totalitarian State

A political system where the state recognizes no limits to its authority, as established by Hitler in Germany.

Weimar Republic

The democratic government of Germany from 1919 until 1933, characterized by political instability and economic struggles.

Lebensraum

A German term meaning 'living space,' referring to Hitler's expansionist policies aiming to acquire territories.

Chancellor

The head of government in Germany; Hitler was appointed Chancellor on January 30, 1933.

Führer

The title assumed by Hitler, meaning 'leader,' after merging the positions of President and Chancellor.