Rise of Hitler

Hitler’s Early Life and Entry into Politics

Born in 1889 in Austria. He moved to Germany in 1913.

Served in WWI: He was a soldier in the German Army and was wounded twice. He was angered by Germany’s surrender in 1918.

Joined the Nazi Party (1920): Originally called the German Workers’ Party, it became the National Socialist German Workers’ Party (NSDAP or Nazi Party).

Beer Hall Putsch (1923): A failed coup attempt in Munich to overthrow the Weimar government. Hitler was arrested and sentenced to five years but served only nine months.

Wrote Mein Kampf (1925): While in prison, he wrote this book outlining his ideology, including:

Extreme nationalism (Germany must be strong again)

Anti-Semitism (blaming Jews for Germany’s problems)

Anti-Communism

Need for Lebensraum (living space) by expanding eastward