How did Hitler remove opposition to create a dictatorship between 1933-34? Flashcards
What was the Reichstag Fire?
The Reichstag building was set on fire. A Dutch Communist, van der Lubbe, was caught red-handed in the burning building.
What was the effect of the Reichstag Fire?
Hitler used the fire as an opportunity to imprison communist leaders, which stopped them campaigning during the election.
The Nazis convinced President Hindenburg and the country it was in danger from the communists. The Nazis won more seats in the election and Hitler was able to pass the Enabling Act giving him emergency powers.
What was the Enabling Act?
The Reichstag voted to give Hitler the power to make his own laws. The SA stopped opposition deputies going in to vote, and beat up anyone who dared to speak against it.
What was the effect of the Enabling Act?
The Enabling Act made Hitler the dictator of Germany, with power to do anything he liked - legally.
How did Hitler remove political opposition?
In May 1933 Trade Unions were banned and their leaders put in prison. Hitler replaced them with German Labour Front which reduced workers’ pay and took away the right to strike.
In July 1933 Hitler banned all other political parties and their leaders were put in prison. This made Germany a one party state.
How did Hitler remove opposition within the Nazi Party?
Hitler was worried about the loyalty of the SA by 1934. They were no longer as important as he had removed all opposition. On the night of 30 June 1934 Hitler ordered the SS to kill more than 400 SA men, this was the Night of the Long Knives.
What was the effect of the death of Hindenburg in 1934?
When Hindenburg died, Hitler took over the office of President and leader of the army (the soldiers had to swear to die for Adolf Hitler personally). Hitler called himself ‘Fuhrer’ meaning ‘leader’.
