terror, indoctrination and Propaganda: the legal revolution and the day of Potsdam

Question 1

what does the term ‘legal revolution’ mean?

Answer 1

it is used to describe the transformation in Germany from democracy to dictatorship in 1933 to 1934.

Question 2

in 1933 how did the Nazis legally other throw the constitution?

Answer 2

they did not use force but rather attempted to give the impression that the dictatorship was legally founded.

Question 3

Why were the March 5th 1933 election results a disappointment for the Nazis?

Answer 3

it did not give them a 2/3 majority which would allow them to alter the constitution

Question 4

the results of the March 5th elections triggered the seizure of power in state govs (lander)?

Answer 4

by March 9th (4 days after the elections) Nazi seizure of power in the Lander had largely been completed.

Question 5

when did Gobbels become Minister of Propaganda and Popular enlightenment and what powers did this give him?

Answer 5

-13th of March 1933
- he gained control of the media, press, and radio.

Question 6

when was the day of Potsdam?

Answer 6

21st of March 1933

Question 7

what was the day of Potsdam?

Answer 7

an elaborate ceremony staged in the Potsdam Garrison Church to celebrate the opening of the new Reichstag. it was used to reasure Hindenburg and other Elites that were worried about the violence of the SA and whether Hitler could be trusted.

Question 8

how was Hitlers speech at Potsdam successful?

Answer 8

• he wore civilian clothes and bowed to Hindenburg and shook his hand
• in his speech he stressed the need to uphold the status quo
• this flattered Hindenburg and he slowly began to trust Hitler.