Unit 3 - Exam-focused facts

Weakness of Weimar

Proportional Representation led to weak coalition governments.

The "Dagger in the Back" (Dolchstoß)

Belief the army was betrayed by politicians at the end of WWI.

Socialism vs. Nationalism

Hitler emphasized the Nationalist side of the NSDAP to win over elites.

What was the "Sturmabteilung" literal translation

Storm Detachment.

Why was the Munich Putsch a turning point

Shift from revolution to legality.

Impact of Hindenburg

He used Article 48 so much that the Reichstag became irrelevant before Hitler arrived.

The roles of the elite

They preferred Hitler to the "Red Menace" of Communism.

The SA and the Depression

SA soup kitchens provided help to the poor, winning hearts and minds.

Hitler's speaking style

He began slowly/quietly and built to a frenzied climax to captivate crowds.

Role of the Gestapo

Note: They were only formed after Jan 1933 (don't confuse them with the SA/SS in this period!).

What was the "Bavarian Triumvirate"

Kahr, Lossow, and Seisser (the men Hitler captured in the beer hall).

How did the SA help during elections

They tore down opposition posters and distributed Nazi literature.

Von Papen's famous quote

"In two months' time, we will have squeezed Hitler into a corner until he squeaks."

Why was Von Schleicher's chancellorship so short

He had no political base and Hindenburg didn't trust him.

Economic recovery before 1929

The Rentenmark and the Dawes Plan (1924).

Young Plan (1929)

Reduced total reparations, but Hitler campaigned against it as "treason."

The Swastika

Chosen to represent the "Aryan" struggle.

Total seats in 1930 election

107 (a massive jump from 12).

Hitler's legal path

He refused to take any post other than Chancellor throughout 1932.

Final trigger

Hindenburg and Papen's belief that they had no other choice to prevent civil war.