PDF file: History - Advanced Higher - Germany - Education Scotland

Part C: The Rise of Nazism
The rapid rise of the Nazi Party during the early 1930s to become the largest party in
the Reichstag deserves careful consideration. The character and polices of the Party,
its power structure, its methods and its leadership all require attentions.
Notes will be needed on the following aspects:
1. Who supported the Nazis?
There is no simple answer to this; areas of particular strength should be
considered including:
(i) Nazi strength in the provinces
(ii) Nazi appeal to the middle classes
(iii) Nazi strength in Protestant areas
(iv) Attitudes in the Army
(v) Where Nazi finances came from.
2. What were Nazi policies?
There are shifts here, but aspects to consider include:
(i) Nationalism
(ii) Anti-Marxism
(iii) Racialism
(iv) Hostility to Versailles
(v) Strong government and strong leader
(vi) Ideas for reform.
3. What were Nazi methods?
Aspects to include:
(i) Marches and rallies
(ii) The SA and the use of violence
(iii) Propaganda
(iv) The skilful exploiting of circumstances including the Young Plan and
the economic crisis.
4. Adolf Hitler
Aspects to include:
(i) His control over the Party
(ii) His oratory
(iii) His skill as a political opportunist
(iv) Other key figures in the Party.
Issue to discuss
‘Was Hitler’s support strongest in Protestant provincial Germany?’
History: Germany: Versailles to the Outbreak of World War II - 1918-1939 (AH) 31