germany

Hitler's Rise to Power

• Misconceptions:
    - Not a revolution, not elected directly.

Factors Influencing Nazi Support

• Effective Propaganda:
    - Led by Goebbels; innovative use of radio and impactful posters.

• Great Depression:
    - Economic collapse led to increased unemployment and blame on Jews.

• Appealing Party Platform:
    - 25-point program catered to various social groups (nationalists, socialists, workers).

Electoral History

• 1920s Support:
    - Very low: 6.5% (1924), 3% (1924), 2.6% (1928).

• Post-Great Depression:
    - Jumped to 18.3% (Sept 1930) and peaked at 37.4% (July 1932).
    - Largest party in the Reichstag but later saw a decline to 33.1% (Nov 1932).

Political Context in 1932-1933

• Weimar Government:
    - Chancellor appointed by president; Hindenburg (a Junker) looked down on Hitler.

• Failed Appointments:
    - Hindenburg refused to appoint Hitler, instead choosing Von Papen and Von Schleicher, both lacking support in the Reichstag.

• Emergency Powers:
    - Hindenburg used constitution powers to rule, indicating a broken system.

Backroom Deals

• Meetings of Elites:
    - Key figures (Hindenburg, Papen, industrialists) discussed control over Hitler.

• Final Decision:
    - Hitler offered chancellorship as a figurehead, believing he could be controlled.

Conclusion

• Appointment:
    - Hitler appointed Chancellor on 01/30/1933 through political maneuvering, not direct election.

• Current Status:
    - Nazi support was peaking but starting to decline by early 1933.