Rise of the Nazis

Depression and rise of the Nazis

• 1929 wall street crash >>> USA >>> depression.
• USA recalled German loans to be repaid.
• Businesses bankrupt.
• Unemployment rocketed.
• During the depression the 25 points of the Nazis became more attractive (especially to old, unemployed and middle class).
• The Nazis claimed:
• Germany needed a strong leader.
• Needed to get rid of the Treaty of Versailles.
• Needed to give unemployed jobs - join army, build armaments and road building.
• By 1932 the Nazis were the biggest single party.

Why did the Nazis succeed in the elections?

• Businessmen were afraid of communists who would nationalize industry.
• Middle classes hoped the Nazis would prevent more inflation.
• Unemployed thought Nazis would get people back to work.
• Hitler whipped up emotions in his rallies. He was dynamic and gave his message to millions with propaganda.
• Unemployed workers were given food and shelter and employment in the SA.
• Helped by depression from wall street crash 1929.