Emergence: Conditions for Hitler's rise to power Notes

Weaknesses of the Weimar System

1. The Weimar Constitution (1919) introduced proportional representation and universal suffrage but also included Article 48, allowing presidential rule by emergency decree.
2. Coalition instability, with over 20 governments in 14 years, made the system appear weak and ineffective.
3. Many elites in the army, judiciary, and civil service were hostile to democracy, preferring authoritarian traditions.
4. The Republic’s association with the Treaty of Versailles and the “November Criminals” narrative linked democracy to national humiliation.
5. Street violence between political militias, especially the SA and communist groups, eroded public trust in parliamentary politics.

Impact of the First World War and Versailles

1. Germany suffered 2 million military deaths and 5 million wounded, fostering resentment and disillusionment.
2. The Treaty of Versailles stripped Germany of 13% of its European territory, all colonies, and key industrial resources.
3. The War Guilt Clause (Article 231) fuelled nationalist anger and calls for revision.
4. Reparations of £6.6 billion and territorial losses deepened economic hardship.
5. Versailles was exploited by nationalist groups, including the NSDAP, to present themselves as defenders of Germany’s honour.

Economic Crises and Social Unrest

1. The Ruhr Crisis (1923) and hyperinflation wiped out savings, causing massive social dislocation.
2. The Great Depression after 1929, triggered by the collapse of US loans, drove unemployment above 6 million by 1933.
3. Economic hardship undermined moderate parties and pushed voters towards extremists promising decisive action.