The "lean" years

Question 1

Explain what the Nazi party did during the “lean years”.

Answer 1

• The Munich Putsch had been a disaster - 16 Nazis killed, party banned
• Hitler used his time in prison to write Mein Kampf and plan the reorganisation of the party
• Hitler relaunched the party in the Munich beer hall in 1925
• Hitler restructured the party at the Bamberg conference
• The Nazis didn’t get much support during these years - e.g. 3% of votes in 1928 (7th largest party)

Question 2

When was the Bamberg conference?

Answer 2

1926.

Question 3

How was the Nazi party reorganised at the Bamberg Conference?

Answer 3

• Regional parties were created, each having a leader (Gauleiter)
• Women and youth groups were set up to balance the violence of the SA.
• The party was reorganised to better structure its functions. Departments like finance, education and industry were created.
• Hitler squashed the Nationalist vs Socialist splits in the party
• The SS were created (Shutzstaffel - Hitler’s protection squad)
• The party reached out to businessmen, promising them more wealth in return for support.

Question 4

Give three examples of powerful businessmen who donated money to the Nazis in the years 1924 to 1929.

Answer 4

Thyssen, Krupp and Bosch.

Question 5

In the years 1924-1929, support for the Nazis and other extreme parties was low. Why was this?

Answer 5

• Germany recovered financially, which settled and improved life for people
• So people were less likely to turn to extremism
• People were more willing and able to see the strengths and benefits of living in a democracy like the Weimar Republic
• Well-respected war hero Hindenburg became president, increasing support for the WR.

Question 6

During the years of the Depression, German workers turned to the Communist party. By ___, there had been ___ Communists elected into the Reichstag.

Answer 6

1) 1931 2) 100

Question 7

What happened when Hitler challenged Hindenburg by running for President of the WR?

Answer 7

He was never going to win, as Hindenburg was held nationally as a hero. However, this did increase public awareness of Hitler. He became a candidate for Chancellor of the WR once Hindenburg had to appoint a new one.

Question 8

In 19__, the Nazis got _% of votes.

Answer 8

1928

3%