Political authority 1929–1945: collapse of Weimar democracy; establishment of one-party authoritarian Nazi State; roles of Hindenburg and Hitler
Germany's democratic government fell apart after 1929. Hitler and President Hindenburg together destroyed it and replaced it with a Nazi dictatorship that held total power.
Real World
When President Hindenburg appointed Hitler as Chancellor on 30 January 1933, he genuinely believed he could control him — within two months the Enabling Act had rendered Hindenburg's office irrelevant, demonstrating how quickly democratic institutions can be dismantled from within.
Exam Focus
Distinguish between the roles of Hindenburg and Hitler precisely; examiners penalise answers that conflate their actions in 1932–1933.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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