Nazi consolidation of power
The following events saw Hitler and the Nazis strengthen their grip on power, ending in Hitler becoming Fuhrer (leader) of Germany.
20 March 1933
- The first concentration camps are established for political prisoners.
23 March 1933 - The Enabling Act
- Hitler was given the power to make his own laws.
26 April 1933
- Hitler sets up the Gestapo, the secret police of Nazi Germany.
2 May 1933
- Trade unions are banned.
14 July 1933
- All political parties, except the Nazi Party, are banned.
- This destroys democracy by removing the need for elections, creating a one-party state.
30 June 1934 - 'Night of the Long Knives'
- The SA demand to take the place of the German army.
- Hitler cannot afford to lose the support of the army.
- The SS assassinate many of the SA鈥檚 leadership. Officially just under 100 members die, including its leader Ernst R枚hm.
- This wipes out opposition to Hitler within the Nazi Party. It also gives more power to the SS.
19 August 1934 - The F眉hrer
- President Hindenburg dies of old age.
- Hitler joins the titles of President and Chancellor and became head of the German army.
- He takes the title of F眉hrer and has complete dictatorial powers.