Hitler Comes to Power in Germany 1933

• After President Hindenburg comes to power in 1925 Hitler concentrates on becoming the Prime Minister or Chancellor of Germany
• From 1928-1930 new elections revealed that the Nazi party is gaining in popularity; Nazi propaganda has done its job and people are convinced that Hitler equals leadership
• President Hindenburg does not like Hitler and is suspicious of Hitler’s intentions
• Even though Hitler is the most popular candidate to lead the German Parliament, Hindenburg chooses three other men to act as chancellors:

1. Bruning

2. Schleicher

3. Von Papen

• Unfortunately all three men will not be able to gain enough support in the German parliament to hold on to power
• Hindenburg can no longer deny Hitler his chance to be chancellor; on January 30, 1933, Hitler becomes chancellor of Germany
• Strangely the German Parliament building burns in February 1933 and Hitler asks for emergency powers to catch those responsible
• President Hindenburg grants Hitler Special Powers and in March 1933, Hitler passes the Enabling Act
• Nazi leaders will create new laws allowing him total control of Germany –

1. the only legal party will be the Nazi Party

2. a Nazi secret police called the Gestapo will be established (Blackshirts)

3. religion will be monitored closely to make sure priests and ministers preach the gospel according to Hitler

4. all levels of government – federal, provincial and local will follow Nazi directions

5. the court system and all police forces will be directed by the Nazis

• President Hindenburg dies in 1934 from old age
• Hitler pretends to be sadden by this news
• Hitler now combines the offices of President and Chancellor, he will accept the title of “Fuhrer” (the leader)