Why did Hitler and the Nazis come to power in January 1933?

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Why did Hitler and the Nazis come to power in January 1933?

Tim Mason used the phrase ‘intentionalism’ and ‘functionalism’ in order to illustrate the two contrasting schools of thought which had emerged when historians researched the Nazi period (Browning, pg.86) These differences were largely as a result of different theoretical approaches used within the historical profession. (Kershaw,pg 11) When interpreting questions of how Hitler came to power; historians tend to lean towards these two positions. In this light the following will adopt a synthesis approach. The first part of the essay will look at the functionalist perspective, namely the context in which Hitler came to power. The second half will highlight the ‘intentionalist’ viewpoint, which tends to emphasises the character and politics of Hitler as he seized power in Germany. Hopefully this approach will highlight issues which can be used to answer the essay question.

It should be remembered that prior to the Great War nationalism was a powerful driving force in Germany. However, during the 1920s and early 1930s German national character became vulnerable. It was a nation bitter towards its defeat in the First World War and the manner in which it undermined the German national character. For example aspects of the Versailles Treaty humiliated the German nation, witness for instance military restrictions in the Rhineland. More than that the ‘War Guilt Clause‘caused national mourning together with national resentment towards the western allies. Moreover reparations contributed to the country moving towards economical ruin and were a factor that initiated hyper-inflation. Nationalism was always a powerful sentiment and celebrated as a crux of German character. However, as a result of the defeat of the First World War, German national identity had been threatened and undermined. Hitler voiced upbeat national messages which subsequently flattered the German national character which in turn served to help Hitler’s rise to power. (Chambers World History. p370)

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However, in contrast to the above, some argue that it must also be remembered that Stresemann did hold nationalist ideologies, Germany and the Weimar republic did seem to recover from this dark period and their economy gave the impression of stability. Referred to sometimes as ’relative stabilization’ (Hinton & Hite, chapter 4, the ‘golden years’) Germany appeared to go through a period of prosperity. The economy recovered, the arts flourished and the welfare system strengthened. Despite this, there was still political instability. Throughout the years 1923-29 Stresemann endured campaigns of vilification.( Hinton & Hite, chapter 4, the ’golden years’ )

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