Consolidating Hitler's power (1933-34) Flashcards
What caused the Night of Long Knives?
Over 2 million SA members by 1933
Earned reputation for disorderly, violent behaviour
Hitler believed in militarism, wanted to expand army + overturn Treaty
What happened on the Night of Long Knives?
Key SA leader killed
Schleicher killed
Papen placed under house arrest
SS encouraged Rohm (SA leader) to commit suicide
Who was arrested for starting the Reichstag Fire and why was this good for Hitler?
Van der Lubbe - Dutch communist
Opportunity for Nazis to spread propaganda that communists would start a revolution
Hitler persuaded Hindenburg to pass Emergency Fire Decree = could imprison political opponents (communists)
Nazis gained majority in Reichstag due to communists not present
How did Hitler pass the Enabling Act?
Hitler persuaded Hindenburg to call elections in March
SS stopped communists entering
SA inside opera house intimidated voters
Hitler made deal with Centre Party to protect Catholic Church, in return for votes
Hitler needed 2/3 of seats to change constitution
Results: Nazis won 444 votes
What law did Hitler pass following Hindenburg’s death in 1934?
Combined roles of President and Chancellor to make himself Fuhrer
What were Hindenburg’s last wishes?
To reinstate the Kaiser, however Hitler concealed this from the army out of fear of them rebelling
How did Hitler deal with opposition from trade unions?
He banned them and replaced them with the DAF (German Labour Front)
How did Hitler deal with opposition from other political parties?
Banned SPD
Centre Party dissolved itself (Concordat)
Passed the Law Against the Formation of New Parties
Why was the President a potential source of opposition to Hitler?
He disliked Hitler
Article 48, could dismiss him at any time
What did the Enabling Act mean?
Hitler could pass any law he wanted without the Reichstag, and they would be implemented the day after
