NSDAP

The National Socialist German Workers’ Party (NSDAP, shortened to Nazi

Party) grew from the German Workers’ Party.

Between 1924-1928, its new leader, Hitler, set about reorganising the party.

Beer Hall Putsch

In 1923, Hitler tried to lead a revolution, starting in a Beer Hall in Munich.

It failed and Hitler went to prison in 1924. He used his time in prison to plan the future of the Nazis.

New party sections

Hitler began to build strong sections of the Nazi Party.

He created the SS in 1925 to give them physical support and threat. He also planned for the future through the

Hitler Youth.

Propaganda

Hitler also wanted to win mass public support.

With Joseph Goebbels’ help, the Nazi Party became

masters of using radio, cinema and also posters and newspapers to spread their

message.

Election success

The Nazis also became very effective election

campaigners.

They organised their supporters – based on experience in various

elections – to inform and also intimidate voters

(through the Brown Shirts).

Arguments for influence

There were numerous political groups in

Germany (left, right and centre).

Any of them could have exploited problems in Germany, but only the Nazis achieved this.

Arguments against influence

Nazi organisation improved – but still needed economic

problems. Nazi support fell between 1924-29, only rising again after the Wall Street

Crash.

Also, these changes were really because of Hitler.