Aims and Results of Hitler’s Political Policies:

What were the main aims of Hitler's political policies?

To eliminate opposition, create a one-party state, and deconstruct democracy.

What was the SS originally founded for?

It was initially founded as a small bodyguard unit for Adolf Hitler and other Nazi leaders.

What significant role did the SS play in Nazi Germany?

The SS was responsible for police work, military operations, and executing Nazi policies, especially against Jews and political enemies.

What event did the SS carry out that expanded its role in Nazi Germany?

The Night of the Long Knives.

What intelligence agency was part of the SS?

The Sicherheitsdienst (SD).

What was the purpose of the Gestapo?

To instigate an atmosphere of fear and suspicion and gather intelligence against the population.

What was the SA's primary purpose when it was founded?

To provide protection for Nazi meetings and intimidate political opponents.

What nickname was given to the SA members and why?

Brownshirts, due to their distinctive brown uniforms.

What was the Stahlhelm and its political stance?

A German nationalist organization that was anti-republican, nationalist, and anti-communist.

What does the term Gleichschaltung refer to in Nazi policy?

Coordination or Nazification of political and social institutions under Nazi control.

What was the significance of the Reichstag Fire Decree?

It suspended civil liberties and allowed the government to intercept communications.

What was the Enabling Act and its impact on Hitler's power?

The Enabling Act allowed Hitler to make laws without Reichstag approval for four years, effectively establishing dictatorial powers.

What was the dualism within Hitler's regime?

A system where traditional ministries coexisted with Nazi institutions, allowing competition and centralization of power.

How did civil servants react to the arrival of the Nazis?

Many welcomed the Nazis as they aligned with authoritarian ideals, but the Nazis replaced many officials to maintain control.

What was the Law on the Reconstruction of the Reich?

Laws passed to centralize power, abolishing regional parliaments and establishing Nazi-dominated local governments.

What did the one-party state entail in Nazi Germany?

Political parties were outlawed, and the Nazi Party became the sole entity representing the people.

What happened to Trade Unions under Nazi rule?

Independent Trade Unions were abolished and replaced by the German Labour Front, which stripped workers of negotiating rights.

What was the outcome of the Night of Long Knives?

It eliminated SA leadership and secured the support of the army, solidifying Hitler's control.

How did Hitler initially engage with the Churches in Germany?

He sought their support through the Concordat, promising religious freedom and control over education.

What was the historical interpretation by Norman Rich regarding Hitler's was political methods?

He supported the traditional view that Hitler’s policies were effective and worked.

How did historian Momsen view Hitler's style of governance?

He challenged the traditional view, labeling Hitler a "lazy dictator."

What does Kershaw's interpretation of Hitler's practices emphasize?

The deliberate policy of divide and rule within the Nazi regime.

What did the term 'Nazification' specifically refer to in historic context?

The process of aligning political and social institutions with Nazi ideology.

Why was the Communists' power destroyed after the Reichstag Fire?

The Reichstag Fire Decree allowed for the repression of political parties, especially targeting Communists first.

What was the role of Hermann Goring following the Reichstag Fire?

He controlled the Prussian administration and oversaw the purging of political opponents.

How did Hitler justify the use of illegal methods during his rise to power?

He framed them as necessary actions based on legal justifications.

What was the purpose of removing local officials and replacing them under the Nazis?

To ensure that all local government officials were loyal and followed Nazi orders.

What did the terms of the Concordat fail to ensure in practice?

The Nazis had no intention of honoring the agreement, despite initially reassuring the Church.

How did the Nazi Party control local governance after 1934?

Through Nazi leaders called Gauleiters who ensured local compliance with Nazi policies.

What crucial political tactic helped Hitler establish a one-party state?

Outlawing or coercing other political parties to dissolve.

What was the key effect of the Enabling Act on judicial systems in Nazi Germany?

Judges were expected to align their rulings with Nazi ideology, undermining independence.