Cambridge IGCSE History - Depth Study option - Germany

Part 1

Weimar – 1918-1933



Weimar Constitution – main features, weaknesses, power of president, article 48, parties


 What were the different parties in Weimar Republic:
SPD; Centre; DNVP; KPD; DVP.

What were the main features of the Weimar Constitution?
e.g. It was a democracy.  Everyone 21 yrs and over could vote.   It was a republic.
It was a multi-party state, with numerous political parties e.g. SPD, KPD, NSAPD
Every seven years, there was a vote for the president.
The president was the head of state and he appointed the chancellor, who was the head of government.
Election results were decided by proportional representation.
The president had emergency power to dissolve the Reichstag and rule by himself.
Proportional representation made it unlikely that any party would have overall control, resulting in coalition governments.
They voted for the President who appointed the Chancellor.

Weaknesses of the constitution:
·         Proportional representation meant many parties , no party could gain majority to impose decisions
·         very slow and ineffective progress; no quick decisions can be made
·         too much individual rights to extremist groups
·         easily engineered with so many parties;
·         under Article 48 the President could rule by decree. This could possibly mean dictatorship
·         democratic government structure was alien to the German people at the time

Power of president
Head of state; Commander-in-Chief, Article 48 emergency powers to
suspend individual rights and rule by decree; directly elected etc.

Article 48
Rule by decree in emergency, and maintain public order with the use of armed forces, may suspend other Articles that protect individual rights of citizens etc.
President could pass emergency bills without the consent of the Reichstag.

Chancellors, presidents (Hindenburg)

Presidents involvement:
Head of State; overruling powers. (1 – 2)
Level 2 – Describes aspects. Award an extra mark for each aspect described in additional detail e.g. Ruled by decree; appointed Chancellors; declared a State of Emergency; used Article 48 of the Weimar Constitution (expect details of this Articles powers) etc. (2 – 4)

Resentment from the army/monarchists

Monarchists etc. lost power and influence. Many held key positions as judges,
police, military, civil service. Did not want to be dominated by liberals,
socialists, Catholics, Jews etc. Objected to the way the treaty was made and
also its terms. November criminals etc.

General political problems 1918-1920

Why were there so many political extremists 1919-23 & many disturbances 1919-22

Political problems 1918-20
There were strikes of Berlin workers and demonstrations in 1918.  Sailors took over Kiel.
Kaiser Wilhelm had fled the country.  There was a new democratic government.
There was the Kapp Putsch and the Spartacist rising in 1919.
In 1920 the Freikorps led by Kapp tried to set up a right wing government.
Communists thought there should be a revolution.

Why Political extremists?
One for the reason, one for explanation e.g. Extreme parties; impact of Rev in Russia; paramilitary groups; Govt officials; judiciary; police; universities etc supported by old style regime; Treaty etc.

Spartacist rising 1919 – describe events, who? Main leaders

Describe events:
They were a communist group who formed the Spartacist League.
They wanted Germany to be governed like Russia after the Revolution of Oct. 1917, with workers and soldiers councils in each town.
The leaders were Rosa Luxemburg and Karl Liebknecht.
They tried to seize power in January 1919, occupying public buildings and calling a general strike.
After two weeks, the revolution was defeated by the Freikorps and the leaders were shot.
At the end of 1918 they renamed themselves the German Communist Party.

Freikorps 1919-20 – Describe activities

They put down Communist risings.
They were used by the government to protect borders against the Red Army.
They crushed the Spartacist League and murdered Liebknecht and Luxemburg in Jan 1919.
In March 1919 they crushed strikes in the Ruhr, Rhineland and Saxony. And in May, they defeated the Bavarian (Munich) Soviet Republic.
In March 1920 the Freikorps attempted to overthrow the government in the Kapp Putsch, but failed.
In 1920 many of the Freikorps joined Hitler and the NSDAP, including Ernst Roehm.

Why Freikorps important
Used by government to suppress KPD; Berlin strike; Bavaria; brutality led to left-wing distrust of Weimar; assassins; semblance of military; focus for rightwing/ monarchists; Kapp Putsch – army and workers responses etc.

Kapp Putsch 1920 – Describe events & govt response

A coup by extreme right wing group. Leaders - Kapp and Luttwitz
aim was to recover land taken by the Treaty of Versailles.
A group of 5000 Freikorps attempted to march on Berlin and take power in Berlin.
Ministry of Defence only had 2 000 – army not keen to defend Republic.
Triumphant entry, new government proclaimed, Kapp Chancellor;
Kapp set himself up as head of a new government.
The army refused to stop Kapp. Ebert and his government fled from Berlin.
Workers went on a general strike and Berlin ground to a halt. City paralysed. 
Kapp fled to Sweden.  Freikorps disbanded

1923 – economic disaster, Ruhr

Why econ disaster by 1923
Germany had to send large quantities of goods to France and Belgium as part of the
reparations payment. Reparations had not been paid. The Ruhr was occupied by France.
French and Belgium troops entered the Ruhr and began to take what was owed to
them in the form of raw materials and goods. The government ordered passive resistance (strike). The French reacted harshly killing over 100 workers.
There were no goods to trade so the government printed more money to pay the striking workers. This made inflation worse. Prices rocketed and the money was worthless. This was hyperinflation. Business went bankrupt. Money was worthless and peoples savings were wiped out.

There was an attempt by the Nazis to seize power. This was the Munich Putsch.
There was the Munich Putsch with Hitler attempting to seize power from the Weimar Republic. Because of its financial difficulties Hitler believed the Republic was on the verge of collapse and he tried to seize power. Although it failed the Putsch gave Hitler publicity.

What happened in Ruhr?
French reaction to non-payment of reparations. German passive resistance. French violence towards Germans. Printing of money to compensate strikers led to hyperinflation. [2–4]

Describe the occupation of the Ruhr in 1923.
Germany failed to pay its reparations. Troops from France and Belgium entered the Ruhr.
Belgium and France wanted to take goods.
The government called for passive resistance with French and Belgian troops.
German workers went on strike bringing production to a halt. A number of strikers were shot.

Hyperinflation 1923 – why? How damage on Weimar? Blame?

Why hyperinflation?
Inflationary problems existed before the invasion of the Ruhr by French and
Belgian troop to secure reparations. Cost of war and loss of confidence in economy. Passive Resistance by workers saw the government trying to pay workers on strike. Printed money on a massive scale – unsupportable either by reserves or income from Ruhr production etc.

Compared to Versailles:
Hyperinflation: Affected most Germans. Middle class lost money and businesses;
savings; collapse of currency; some profited; Undermined confidence in Weimar Republic etc. etc.
T of V. Hated because of terms re. territory, military, colonies, war guilt and
reparations. This helped to cause hyperinflation through inability to pay
reparations, legalised the French and Belgian occupation of Ruhr, strike and printing of money etc.

Was the hyperinflation a disaster or not?
YES. Increased resentment towards the government; strengthened the right-wing;
greater disaster bitterness towards Versailles and the French; bartering; food
shortages; savings worthless etc.
NO  Made paying reparations cheaper; led to American aid; brought Stresemann to power; Rentenmark helped economic recovery; those in debt could pay off; at first, workers protected by union wage agreements; industrialists benefited because of one union wage agreements collapsed etc.


Munich Putsch


 Describe the events of the Munich Putsch, 1923. [5]
What part did Hitler play in the Munich Putsch? [5] 

Why did the Munich Putsch take place? [7] 
What was Hitler trying to achieve through the Munich Putsch? [5] 
Why did Hitler attempt the Munich Putsch? [7]
Hitler tried to overthrow the Weimar government.
He believed it was an opportune time to topple it. The government was pre-occupied with the economic crisis and had just called off the passive resistance in the Ruhr. There was discontent in Germany due to the effects of hyperinflation. Many nationalists still hated the Treaty and were furious about the Weimar government. With this in mind Hitler thought it was the right time to seize power.
The Bavarian government was right-wing. Its leaders had been plotting against the government. Hitler felt sure they would support a putsch. Hitler tried to secure power and through his close relationship with WWI hero Ludendorff, he believed that Ludendorff would persuade the German army to desert the government and side with the Nazis.

Why was there a putsch in Munich in 1923 and why did it fail? [6]
A protest about the Weimar governments handling of the occupation of the Ruhr area.
Failed because the Bavarian troops/police would not support the putsch,
dispersed easily by loyal troops, insufficient numbers to achieve success etc.
NB Only one aspect attempted – Maximum of 4 marks. [2–6]


Why was the Munich Putsch important for Hitler and the Nazi Party? [7]
Hitler turned his trial into a propaganda success. Hitler used his trial to make long speeches criticising the government and setting out his plans for the future of Germany. This publicity turned him into a national figure. It resulted in a small election gains for the Nazi Party in the 1924 Reichstag elections.
He was able to gain the sympathy of the court and judge.
When in prison he began work on his book Mein Kampf which set out his main beliefs and which clarified, and presented, his ideas about Germanys future (for example ….).
He also had opportunity to consider future strategies, realising power could be best achieved in Germany through legal means rather than an armed uprising. Once in power they could destroy the system.

How was Hitler affected by the Munich Putsch? [5] 
What impact did the failure of the Munich Putsch have on the Nazi Party? [5] 
The leader of the Party, Hitler, was in prison.
The Partys newspaper in Munich was banned.
The Nazi Party was banned until 1925.
Hitler decided to win power by legal means, but the success of Stresemanns policies
meant that there was little support for extremists.

In what ways did Hitler change his tactics following the Munich Putsch? [5] 
He realised whilst in prison that the Nazis would not be able to change power by force.
They would have to work within the democratic system but once in power could destroy it. (2)
He began to rebuild the Nazi Party to make it acceptable to the electorate.
He described the changes in his book Mein Kampf.



Stresemann Era 1928-28 


 – main achievement (economic, political stability by 1929), methods? how far effective? 

How did Stresemann solve the economic problems by 1928?
Rentenmark introduced, called off passive resistance and promised to pay reparations, negotiated Dawes Plan etc.

How successful was the Weimar republic in dealing with Germanys problems by 1928?
Successful: 
Economic improvements – Hyperinflation & Passive Resistance ended. new currency
Germany was accepted back into the international community.
Loans came from the USA.   Political stability still existed.
Ger restarted reparations, improving employment; allow foreign policy initiatives which saw Germany again seen as trustworthy.
Hyperinflation was ended and confidence returned with the introduction of a new
currency and reduction in government spending.
Stresemann negotiated the Dawes Plan. Between 1924-29 Germany received over 25 billion marks in loans from the USA. With this German industry was re-built.
In return for starting to pay reparations again the Germans, under the Dawes Plan
received loans to encourage industry thus raising the standard of living and resulted in the
French and Belgium troops leaving the Rhur in 1925.
By 1928 industrial production was higher than pre-war levels.
Germanys international position was improved. By the 1925 Locarno Pact Germanys borders were resolved and Germany was admitted to the League of Nations in 1926. This acceptance was reinforced in 1928 with the signing of the Kellogg-Briand Pact against the use of war in foreign policy.
The greater freedom of the republic encouraged a cultural revival through artists, writers,
architects and musicians. Berlin became a thriving centre of the arts.

Limited success: 
To a great extent, Germanys recovery after 1923 was an illusion. The economic recovery
depended on loans, while some sectors, such as agriculture, were in serious trouble.
Following the Wall Street Crash, the USA recalled their loans and once more Germany sank into economic depression. People blamed the Weimar and turned to extreme groups with radical solutions.
Political stability was wafer thin. Stresemann was unable to please the political extremists, who continued to threaten Germanys political stability
Actions caused tensions with the extreme Right and Left; economic measures too heavily reliant on
foreign loans; inherent weakness of Weimar constitution in the face of a world economic downturn.
Unemployment remained a serious problem as the economy was not growing fast enough.
Farming suffered from depression in the 1920s due to the fall in food prices. Farmers went into debt.
No one party was able to secure a majority in the Reichstag.
Nationalists opposed Stresemanns policies.
Extremist parties such as the Nazis and Communists were determined to overthrow the Weimar Republic.

Economic success was the main achievement of the Stresemann era?
He introduced a new currency, the Rentenmark.   He ended inflation.
He helped the economy recover.    Stresemann worked with the USA.
Foreign affairs proved to be a success.    There was a cultural revival.
He ended hyperinflation and brought confidence back by introducing a new
currency and reducing government spending.
In return for starting to pay reparations again, the Germans, under the Dawes
Plan, received loans to encourage industry therefore raising the standard of living
and resulting in the French and Belgium troops leaving the Ruhr.
By 1928 industrial production was higher than pre-war levels.
Stresemann re-negotiated reparations under the Young Plan.
Economic prosperity was based largely on foreign loans. Exports were falling and
yet huge sums were being spent on welfare and health care.
Many historians have thought that Stresemanns biggest achievement was getting
Germany accepted back into the international community. He signed the Locarno
Pact, joined the League of Nations and signed the Kellogg-Briand Pact against the use of war.
A more open approach resulted in a revival in art and culture through newspapers,
theatres, painters and literature.

It was American loans, not Stresemanns policies that let Germany recover?
Loans - Dawes and Young Plans, enabled Germany to pay
reparations, increase confidence, expand industry jobs etc.
Policies – changed currency, encouraged international cooperation,
League of Nations entry, Locarno, Kellogg-Briand; US loans finally undermined Germany etc. (2)

Foreign policy – greater success than in domestic issues?
In 1922, Germany and the USSR re-established diplomatic relations in the T of Rapallo.
Stresemann signed Locarno Pact in 1925. Germany confirmed its western borders with Bel & Fr.
As a result of Locarno, Germany was accepted into the League of Nations in 1926 as it had
shown a responsible attitude.
In 1928 Germany was one of the signatories of the Kellogg-Briand Pact which had stated
that countries would not go to war to settle international disputes.
Stresemann had worked closely with the Americans in securing loans under the Dawes Plan
(1924) and reducing and extending the payment period of reparations in the Young Plan (1929).
The early domestic problems of the Weimar Republic, such as the Spartacist rising and the
Kapp Putsch, were overcome.
Stresemann ended hyperinflation and brought confidence back by introducing a new currency and reducing government spending.
A more open approach resulted in a revival in art and culture through newspapers, art and literature.
Economic prosperity was based largely on foreign loans. Exports were falling and yet huge
sums were being spent on welfare and health care.



The Nazis 1929-1933


 Why did the support for the Nazis increase after the Wall Street Crash of 1929? [7] 2004s
The Great Depression brought rising unemployment and poverty and the Weimar government seemed to have no idea what to do except raise taxes, cut wages and unemployment benefit. Democracy had failed them and they turned to extreme parties for solutions. The Nazis offered to get people back to work on public works and later rearmament.
There was a rise in extremism with the Nazis promising to get rid of the enemy within – Jews & communists. This helped the party to gain significant numbers of seats in the Reichstag.
Their anti-communist stance was very popular and they used propaganda, posters, newspapers, radio and mass rallies to whip up fear and hatred and gain support.
By blaming the Jews, Hitler offered a scapegoat for Germanys problems.

Why did the Nazi Party become popular between 1929 and 1932? [7] 2011, 2005 4, 2004, 2002
The Nazi Party was anti-communist. It appealed to all those who feared what communism might bring, particularly the industrialists, who feared a loss of their businesses. By dropping the social elements of the Nazi program they won the support of the industrialists.
The promise to reverse the Treaty of Versailles appealed to nationalists and those who
believed the stab in the back theory. This also won the support of the German armed forces.
They promised to tackle unemployment. With millions out of work because of the
Depression this attracted the support of middle-class Germans.
Many women were attracted to the party by its emphasis on family life and self-discipline.
The anti-Jewish campaign was highly effective. Hitler told the people their problems
were caused by the Weimar republic, the communists and especially the Jews. So Hitler
provided a scapegoat to help his support.

Did the election results of 1930–33 prove people supported Hitlers ideas and policies? [8] 2003
Arguments for:
·         Before 1930 the Nazis had only 12 seats. During this time Hitler exploited the problems of the government holding huge rallies and making speeches on tours around Germany. He promised to restore Germanys economy. This resulted in an increase of support that gained 107 seats.
·         In July 1932 elections the Nazis became the biggest party in the Reichstag with 230 seats.
·         Even von Papen and Hindenburg tried to use Hitlers popularity to gain control for the Weimar government
Arguments against:
·         Communist support continued to increase suggesting support elsewhere. Hitler had to suppress Communist Party.
·         Not everyone voted freely for Hitler. They voted only after the Wall Street Crash of 1929, or out of fear of the Communists
·         Whilst Nazi Party was largest seat holder, it did not have an overall majority. Support slipped in November 1932, reducing to 196 seats.

Nazis increasing success in elections 1930-1933 was caused by use of violence.? [8] 2011 4
Violence - Speeches and propaganda implied a struggle and violence; SA parades and
destruction of other parties meetings; military uniforms; constant calls to arms
and threats; atmosphere intimidating; Nazis violent but got support because
they said they could stop the violence; Reichstag Fire etc.
Others -  Polarisation of support Communists/Nazis in economic crisis; previous
Chancellors had failed to deal with the economic crisis; Hitler had already
done well against Hindenburg in the Presidential election; seemed to be no
alternative; genuine support for the Party and its policies etc.

How significant was Hitlers role in increasing the popularity of the Nazi Party 1929 -1932? [8]
At that time Hitler was attempting to become President and in March 1932 challenged Hindenburg. He carried out an election campaign and won 13.4 million votes. This campaign provided much-needed publicity for Nazi ideas. This support was added to in the Reichstag elections of July 1932 which proved to be a triumph for the Nazis who gained 230 seats.
The popularity of Hitler at that time ensured the Nazis were the largest party despite a loss in the share of votes.
Hitler persuaded powerful industrialists that he would prevent the Communists from taking power and would restore the German economy. He built up a cult with the people through his speech-making skills with his campaigns being focused around his personality.
BUT
Great Depression destroyed the whole basis of the German economy and German trade suffered. Many were prepared to listen to the promises of extremist parties such as the Nazis.
The Depression brought about a political crisis which led to the fall of democracy. At the same time it highlighted a weakness in the Constitution. The leading parties fell out and had to ask President Hindenburg to use Article 48. This was agreed and laws were passed without the say of the Reichstag. This ended democracy and aided the Nazi Party who did not believe in it.
Using every method of propaganda Goebbels got the Nazi message to every town and home in Germany. This propaganda was used with good effect to whip up fear and hatred of the Communists and increase the number of seats gained in elections.

In what ways did Hitler change his tactics following the Munich Putsch? [5]
He realised whilst in prison that the Nazis would not be able to change power by force.
They would have to work within the democratic system but once in power could destroy that
system. (2) He began to rebuild the Nazi Party to make it acceptable



1920s - Nazis' limited success


 What methods did the Nazis use to gain support in elections before 1933? [5]
They promised employment.  promised to deal with those responsible for Germanys problems
One leader – traditional values.   They issued posters and pamphlets.
The SA and SS gave the impression of discipline and order.
They organised soup kitchens and hostels for the unemployed.

Why did the Nazi Party have little success before 1930?
The Party had extremist ideas, nationalism, anti-Semitism which were unacceptable to many.
They set up the SA and its violent tactics were notorious.
The Munich Putsch of 1923 resulted in Hitler being imprisoned, its newspaper being
banned and the party being banned. When the ban was lifted in 1925, Hitler made a speech
which was so critical of the government that he was banned from speeches for another two years.
Stresemann’s economic and foreign policies were so successful that Germany returned to political and economic stability as hyperinflation ended. People gave very little support for extremist parties. In 1928 the Nazi Party had 12 seats in the Reichstag and was only the eighth largest party.
Most industrial workers tended to support left wing parties such as the communists. Parties
like the communists often attacked Nazi Party meetings.
As Munich Putsch revealed, the Nazis did not have the support of either the police or the Army.

How significant was Hitler’s role in increasing popularity of the Nazis 1929-32?
At that time Hitler was attempting to become President and in March 1932 challenged
Hindenburg. He carried out an election campaign and won 13.4 million votes. This
campaign provided much-needed publicity for Nazi ideas. This support was added to in the
Reichstag elections of July 1932 which proved to be a triumph for the Nazis who gained 230 seats.
The failure to appoint Hitler as Chancellor at the end of 1932 resulted in the threat of a Nazi
uprising if von Papen remained in post and the popularity of Hitler at that time ensured the
Nazis were the largest party despite a loss in the share of votes.
Hitler persuaded powerful industrialists that he would prevent the Communists from taking
power and would restore the German economy. He built up a cult with the people through
his speech-making skills with his campaigns being focused around his personality.

OR

The Great Depression destroyed the whole basis of the German economy and German trade suffered. Many Germans were prepared to listen to the promises of extremist parties such as the Nazis.
The Depression brought about a political crisis which led to the fall of democracy. At the same time it highlighted a weakness in the Constitution. The leading parties fell out and had to ask President Hindenburg to use Article 48. This was agreed and laws were passed without the say of the Reichstag. This ended democracy and aided the Nazi Party who did not believe in it.
Using every method of propaganda Goebbels got the Nazi message to every town and
home in Germany. This propaganda was used with good effect to whip up fear and hatred of
the Communists and increase the number of seats gained in elections.


Why economic disaster by 1933
Wall Street Crash; US loans recalled; banks collapsed; loss of export markets;
government cut expenditure; massive unemployment; wages cut; fears of a
return to 1923 conditions etc. (2 – 6)
Describe the ideas and policies of the Nazi Party in the 1920s. [5] 2004w
They used violence / extremist.  Anti-Semitic.   The 25 points.  Restore to former glory.
It was opposed to the Weimar Republic.  Wanted to overthrow the Treaty of Versailles.
To gain more territory for its people in a single solution for the German problems.
Belief in the use of rallies, parades and marching songs.  Deal strongly with opponents (SA).
There was a fear of communism.  Dictatorship/one party state.


Hitler’s rise as Chancellor 1933


 Why was Hitler able to become Chancellor in 1933? [7]
Why did events from 1930 to 1932 result in Hitler becoming Chancellor? [7] 2010, 2007
By 1930 the old hostility to the Weimar Republic had resurfaced. With the Depression and the death of Stresemann, Germany had once again sunk into economic depression.
People began to turn to those parties that offered a radical solution – the Nazis and the Communists.

The government coalition led by Müller could not agree on how to deal with the effects of the Depression and in 1930 he resigned, to be succeeded by Brüning. He did not have a majority and had to rely on Hindenburg. This resulted in fewer meetings of the Reichstag and Hindenburg issuing over a number of presidential decrees.

During this time Hitler exploited the governments problems by holding huge rallies and promises to restore the economy. In the elections of September 1930 the Nazis won 107 seats and in July 1932 they won 230 seats.
In the Presidential elections of March 1932, Hitler challenged Hindenburg and his position was strengthened by winning 13.4 million votes.

Bruning was sacked as he failed to deal with the economic problems. He was replaced by Papen. In the July 1932 elections he hoped to strengthen his position in the Reichstag but the Nazis became the largest single party with 230 seats. Hitler refused to co-operate with Papen.

Hitler suffered a setback in November 1932 as they only secured 196 seats. But even so, there was a fear of Communist uprisings if Papen remained in office. Schleicher was made Chancellor but failed to win support in the Reichstag. Papen refused to return but thought that if Hitler was appointed they would be able to control him by packing the cabinet with conservative allies.

Germany was hit by Depression.  The election results began to favour the Nazi Party.
Those appointed chancellor failed to gain support in the Reichstag. Papen was mistaken about Hitler.



To what extent was Hitlers appointment as Chancellor in 1933 a result of his popularity? [8]
The popularity of the Nazi Party’s ideas was the most important reason for Hitler’s appointment as chancellor? [8]
The Depression/Wall St Crash was the most important reason for Hitler’s appointment as chancellor? [8]
actions of Papen and Hindenburg responsible for Hitler becoming Chancellor? [8] 2010, 2006
weakness of Weimar Government enabled Hitler to become Chancellor?  [8] 2009

Hitler:
Hitler was a great orator.  Hitler made good use of propaganda.
Hitler became popular with industrialists.  Hitler had attractive policies.
Hitler was a skilled public speaker and proved to be very persuasive. For the difficult times, he had attractive policies for the German people. Joseph Goebbels made effective use of propaganda and helped to portray Hitler as a commanding figure who had the answers to Germanys problems.
Hitler was popular amongst many industrialists, who feared that a communist government
would take over their businesses.
Hitler was popular amongst military leaders as he advocated strengthening of German armed forces.
Hitler was admired by ordinary Germans because his policies were becoming popular. He wanted to abolish the Treaty of Versailles; he was anti-communist and he had ideas as to how the unemployment problem could be tackled.
Hitler himself was a very powerful and skilled speaker. His performances at rallies were very persuasive.
Joseph Goebbels organised Hitler’s election campaigns and was a master of propaganda.
His organisation of rallies and posters helped to highlight Hitler’s appeal.

Wall Street Crash/Great Depression
The death of Stresemann and the Wall Street Crash in 1929 caused an economic crisis for Germany. People began to lose faith in parliamentary democracy and turned to those offering a radical solution.
There were a series of chancellors between 1929 and 1933 – Muller, Bruning, von Papen and von Schleicher – none of them were able to tackle the underlying problems. Increasingly, Hindenburg ruled by presidential decree as the Reichstag met less and less.

In difficult economic times, the Nazi Party programme proved to be very attractive to voters. The Nazis believed the Treaty of Versailles had to be abolished because it brought great misery on Germany. In particular, the heavy reparations weakened Germany’s economy.
At a time of massive unemployment, the Nazis programme of work was appealing. A huge range of jobs were outlined from the re-building of the armed forces to the building of homes and motorways.
Many Nazis blamed the Jews for Germany’s problems from the loss of the First world War to the Depression. It was appealing to have someone to blame. Jews throughout Europe were not popular and the Nazis played on this factor.

The Great Depression destroyed the whole basis of the German economy and German trade suffered. Many Germans were prepared to listen to the promises of extremists such as the Nazis.
Disillusionment with democracy : The failure of successive chancellors to deal with the effects of the Depression made Hitler’s appointment a possibility. Bruning, Schleicher and von Papen all failed to command majorities in the Reichstag and resulted in Hindenburg ruling by decree.

Hitler promised to deal with the problems of the economy and the Depression as the German people wanted radical solutions to their problems.
Previous chancellors to Hitler could not command a majority. So Hindenburg offered Hitler the position.

Between 1930 and 1932, Hitler exploited the governments problems by holding huge rallies at which he promised to restore Germanys economy, such as by huge employment schemes and destroying the Treaty of Versailles. This enabled the Nazi Party to win 230 seats in July 1932, becoming the largest party in the Reichstag.

Weaknesses of the Weimar
Between 1930 and 1932, no one party had enough support to form a strong government and Hindenburg ruled by decree. He appointed his own chancellors. Bruning, von Papen and Schleicher all failed to cope with the crisis and The Weimar politicians could not cope with the effects of the depression. No one party had enough support and President Hindenburg ruled by decree. As a result of the July 1932 elections the Nazis became the largest party. They could not command a majority in the Reichstag.
Von Papen persuaded Hindenburg to appoint Hitler Chancellor.
The elite groups considered it better for Germany to have a strong, authoritarian government rather than the President acting alone. These groups preferred the Nazi Party rather than the communists.

In Jan 1933, Hindenburg and von Papen thought Hitler should be appointed and that they would be able to control him.

Also: Constitutional problems created coalitions, thus weak government; had signed the Versailles Treaty; November criminals; death of Stresemann and Great Depression exacerbated weaknesses etc.

Other factors
The SA and terror tactics

Why was Hindenburg’s death in 1934 important to Hitler? [6] 2003 4
Decisive handling of SA persuaded army to support Hitler becoming President as well as Chancellor, oath of allegiance, no opposition, Hitler became the only political personality seen as capable of leading Germany forward.

From Chancellor to Dictator (Fuhrer) 1933-1934

*Note: This section can be under 'Weimar' (question #9) or 'Nazi' (#10)


Reichstag Fire (Feb 1933)

Describe the Reichstag Fire and its effects. [4] 2009s 4
Was it the work of Van der Lubbe or of the Nazis? Nazis banned Communists and Hindenburg signed Decree for protection of the people and state. Freedom of speech and assembly etc suspended.
Thousands of communists. arrested. Election of March 5 1933 etc.        


Enabling Law (March 1933)
What was the Enabling Law of March 1933? [5] 2009, 2009 4, 2008 4, 2003
A single law providing the constitutional basis for Hitlers dictatorship, Only SDP voted against. Communists outlawed by this time. Act lasted four years and was renewed in 1937, 1939 and 1943.
It effectively made Hitler a dictator Germany by giving Hitler power to make laws without the Reichstag. It removed parliamentary democracy.
The law gave Hitler power to crush political opposition.

What power did the Enabling Act give to Hitler? [2] 2003 4
rule by decree, dictatorial powers, no need to consult Reichstag, make alliances.


Night of Long Knives (June 1934)


Röhm
Why was Ernst Röhm important to the Nazis before 1934? [6] 2010w 4
Military / Freikorps background; Quasi-socialist image; close to Hitler;
Munich / imprisonment; Aided the rebuild of the Party; Chief of Staff of SA from 1931; Destroying opposition in 1932/3 elections; Disliked by other leaders; His wish to unite SA and Wehrmacht made him a dangerous person for Hitler; Wanted more left wing policies which would upset Hitlers financial backers

Why was Röhm a threat to Hitler? [7] 2008s
Röhm wanted power for himself and the SA. Röhm was a threat to Hitlers dictatorship. 
Röhm wanted to merge the SA with the army and take control. Hitler needed the support of the army to carry out his plans. This was a threat to his control.
Röhm wanted a second revolution to put socialist policies into practice. Many industrialists thought this programme was like Communism. Hitler did not want to upset them.
Hitler no longer needed the SA as he had the SS, his own personal bodyguard. He was embarrassed by the continued violence of the SA.
Himmler and Goering convinced Hitler that Röhm was a threat to Hitlers power. Really they were jealous of Röhms power.

Describe the events of the Night of the Long Knives. [5]   2008, 2006, 2003 4, 2002
On 30 June 1934 Hitler arrived at a hotel in Bad Wiessee with heavily armed SS.
He informed Röhm and other SA leaders they were under arrest.
The SA leaders were taken to Munich where they were shot.
Over the next four days other leaders were arrested by the SS and shot.
Up to 200 were killed including von Schleicher.

Why did the Nazis carry out the Night of the Long Knives? [7] 2009, 2009 4,
Rohm was a challenge to Hitler.  Hitler was concerned about the SA.
To arrest Rohm.   To please the Army leaders.   Rohms views were too left-wing.  The SA had lost their purpose.
Hitler was embarrassed by the continued violence of the SA.
The SA had become a threat to Hitler and SA leaders wanted pay and position
for previous services. SA wanted to merge with the Army with Rohm at its head.
SA anti-capitalist and left wing. Removal of SA would gain Hitler the loyalty of the army etc.
Rohm, leader of the SA, had left-wing views which would offend the businessmen that Hitler now wanted to work with.
Rohm wanted to merge the SA into the German army and for him to have control, but Hitler feared this would lose him the armys support.
When Hitler ordered the SS to arrest and murder the leaders of the SA, including Rohm, using the excuse that Rohm was about to plan a revolution, Hitler had removed a potential threat to his overall control.
Hitler removed rivals outside the SA, like von Schleicher and Gregor Strasser, and therefore tightened his control.
Hitler no longer needed the SA as he had the SS, his own personal bodyguard.
Paper 4 2005w

The most important reason for Hitler…1933-1934 was the Reichstag Fire.? [8] 2010 x2, 2005 4
The Reichstag Fire was blamed on the Communists.
The Night of the Long Knives removed opposition.
Hitler banned political opponents and newspapers.
In February 1933, the Reichstag building was destroyed by fire and Hitler used the fire
to intensify anti-communist hysteria.
Hindenburg passed an emergency decree allowing Hitler to arrest communist leaders
and preventing the Nazis political opponents from holding public meetings.
In the Reichstag elections, the Nazis won 288 seats and in addition he banned the
communist deputies. This gave Hitler enough votes to pass the Enabling Law, which
gave Hitler power to make laws without referring to the Reichstag.

The SA had become a major problem. Rohm, leader of the SA, had left wing views which would offend businessmen, the very people Hitler wanted to work with. Rohm also wanted to merge the SA into the German army and for him to have control. Hitler feared this would lose him the army’s support.
In June 1934, Hitler ordered the SS to arrest the leaders of the SA. Rohm was killed as was von Schleicher. The Enabling Act made Hitler dictator over Germany and in July 1934 he banned all other political parties.
In Aug 1934 Hindenburg died. His death allowed Hitler to declare himself Fuhrer. The
army was to swear an oath of loyalty to Hitler. He had achieved total power.

Reichstag Fire was more important than Night of the Long Knives in enabling Hitler to establish control over Germany. How far do you agree? [8] 2010w
Reichstag Fire more important than Enabling Act in allowing Hitler to consolidate power? [8]
Enabling Act was the most important factor…becoming the Führer in 1934. [8] 2010 4

How important was the Reichstag Fire?
The fire occurred just before the March 1933 election. Hitler turned this to his advantage and blamed the Communists, stating it was a Communist uprising.
The left was the Nazis’ biggest enemies and the arrest of Van der Lubbe gave Hitler evidence that the Communists were plotting against his government. On the night of the fire, 4000 leading Communists were arrested and imprisoned to remove the threat.
To increase Nazi control, the next day Hitler persuaded the President to pass an emergency decree suspending all civil liberties including freedom of speech. It gave the Nazis powers to search houses and detain people without trial. He used these powers to intimidate voters.
In the election, the Nazis won their largest share of the votes and got 288 seats. This helped him to pass the Enabling Act later.

But: Hitler still did not have an overall majority of seats. His power was still restricted by…

How important was the Enabling Act?
Hitler brought about his first change to the Constitution by introducing the Enabling Act. This was the legal foundation of his dictatorship because it meant he could now pass laws without the consent of the Reichstag for the next four years.
Gave him power to arrest enemies (Communist Party already banned); He later abolished the parliaments.
He arranged for the arrest of trade union officials and merged the unions into a German Labour Front. This meant the Nazis would not be threatened by strikes or other union activities.
In July 1933, Hitler banned all other parties, making the Nazis the only party allowed in the state.
In Aug 1934 Hindenburg died. His death, together with the Enabling Act, allowed Hitler to declare himself Führer of Germany. The army was made to swear an oath of loyalty to Hitler. He had achieved total power.
But…

How important was the Night of the Long Knives?
A significant threat to Hitler came from within the Nazi party. The SA had become a major problem. Röhm, leader of the SA, had left-wing views which would offend the businessmen that Hitler now wanted to work with. Röhm also wanted to merge the SA into the German army and for him to have control, but Hitler feared this would lose him the army’s support.
On 30 June 1934 Hitler ordered the SS to arrest and murder the leaders of the SA. Hundreds were killed including Röhm and von Schleicher. Hitler used the excuse that Röhm was planning a revolution to justify his actions in removing a potential threat to his overall control.

Others - Night of the Long Knives; Death of Hindenburg; Allegiance of the Wehrmacht; Abolition of unions; improvement in jobs and prosperity


The most important reason why Hitler was able to strengthen his control over Germany during the period 1933–34 was the “Night of the Long Knives”. How far do you agree? [8] s2007

How far did Hitler use legal means to become Fuhrer? [8] 2009w 4, 2005s 4
Legal Held elections; made laws to gain power – Enabling Act; appointment as Chancellor, invited by Hindenburg; proper party etc. death of Hindenburg

Not legal - Terror and violence; role of SA; attitudes and some early policies regarding
minorities; propaganda; perhaps Night of the Long Knives. [2]