Nazi rise to powerNazi 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’s leadership. Officially just under 100 members die, including its leader Ernst Röhm.
• This wipes out opposition to Hitler within the Nazi Party. It also gives more power to the SS.

19 August 1934 - The Führer

• 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 Führer and has complete dictatorial powers.