2.1 - Early development of the Nazi Party, 1920-22

Hitler's Background

Born Austria, 1889. Failed art school. Fought in WWI, won Iron Cross. Devastated by German defeat and Versailles. Joined the tiny DAP in September 1919. Motivated by hatred of the "November Criminals" and Jews.

The Nazi Party (NSDAP) — Key Policies (25-Point Programme)

Anti-Versailles, anti-democracy, anti-Jewish. Wanted a strong Germany, union of all Germans, land for the people, and a powerful army. Mix of nationalism and socialism — designed to appeal to many different groups.

How Hitler Took Control of the NSDAP (1919–22)

5 methods: 1) Rewrote party policy. 2) Used his powerful speaking skills to draw huge crowds. 3) Reorganised the party — new name (NSDAP), swastika logo, newspaper. 4) Won the leadership in July 1921 by forcing a vote. 5) Created the SA (Brownshirts) as a private army to intimidate opponents.

The SA (Sturmabteilung / Brownshirts)

Formed 1921. Ex-soldiers in brown uniforms. Used to control crowds at Nazi meetings, break up rival meetings, and show strength on the streets. Grew to 800 members by August 1922. Made the Nazis look powerful and disciplined.