Early development of the Nazi Party, 1920-22

Question 1

Hitler’s early career in politics

Answer 1

Hitler joined the German Worker’s Party (DAP) on 19 Sept 1919 after the war, since he was attracted to their policies, despite being a small party. Within two years, Hitler had taken control of the party.

Question 2

Setting up the Nazi Party (NSDAP) - Party policy

Answer 2

Hitler proposed the Twenty-Five Point Programme which strongly opposed the Weimar politicians (November Criminals), the Weimar constitution (democracy) and the Jews (blamed for undermining German economy).

Question 3

Setting up the Nazi Party (NSDAP) - Hitler’s personal appeal

Answer 3

Public support for the NSDAP depended on Hitler’s words, so he rehearsed the speeches carefully, gestures and image (paintings and portraits of Hitler acting like a leader).

Question 4

Setting up the Nazi Party (NSDAP) - Party organisation

Answer 4

The permanent office in Munich was run by Hitler’s army friend, Rudolf Schussler.
Hitler suggested a new name, the Nazi Party (NSDAP) as an embodiment of the socialist and nationalist parts of the 25 point policy.
It adopted its salute, the Swastika - made them look disciplined.
They bought a newspaper - allowed them to spread word.

Question 5

Setting up the Nazi Party (NSDAP) - Party leadership

Answer 5

Hitler won the leadership contest against Drexler and became the head of NSDAP officially. He appointed Rudolf Hess as his deputy, and Hermann Goering, Julius Streicher and Ernst Rohm for other roles.

Question 6

The role of the SA

Answer 6

Sturmabteilung (stormtroopers) were unemployed ex-soldiers who helped Hitler keep control of the party.
They represented force and discipline in their terrifying brown uniforms. Although Rohm was in charge, the SA gave Hitler more power, but he still distrusted them, so he formed a bodyguard unit called the Stosstrupp (shock troopers).