Summary
Hitler's Germany from 1929 to 1941 saw significant political and social changes, including the rise of the Nazi Party and the establishment of a totalitarian state.
- Wall Street Crash — economic collapse impacting Germany.
Example: The crash in October 1929 led to severe economic problems in Germany. - Müller Government Collapse — end of parliamentary government in Germany.
Example: In March 1930, the Müller government fell, leading to presidential rule under Brüning. - Reichstag Fire — pivotal event leading to emergency powers.
Example: The fire on 27 February 1933 allowed Hitler to push for emergency powers. - Enabling Act — law that gave Hitler dictatorial powers.
Example: Passed on 23 March 1933, it allowed Hitler to rule without parliament. - Night of the Long Knives — purge of SA leadership.
Example: In June 1934, Hitler eliminated potential rivals within the SA. - Nuremberg Laws — laws institutionalizing racial discrimination.
Example: Introduced in September 1935, they targeted Jews and other minorities. - Anschluss — annexation of Austria into Nazi Germany.
Example: In 1938, Germany annexed Austria, expanding its territory. - Operation Barbarossa — invasion of the Soviet Union.
Example: Launched on 22 June 1941, it marked the start of the war against the USSR.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Wall Street Crash
- Enabling Act
- Nuremberg Laws
Common Confusions
- Confusing the Reichstag Fire with the Night of the Long Knives
- Misunderstanding the difference between the Enabling Act and the Nuremberg Laws
Typical Exam Questions
- What was the impact of the Wall Street Crash on Germany? It led to economic devastation and increased political instability.
- How did the Enabling Act change the political landscape in Germany? It allowed Hitler to establish a dictatorship by bypassing the Reichstag.
- What were the Nuremberg Laws? They were laws that formalized racial discrimination against Jews.
What Examiners Usually Test
- The sequence of events leading to Hitler's consolidation of power
- The impact of Nazi policies on German society and economy