Adolf Hitler was a German politician who rose to power as the leader of the National Socialist German Workers’ Party, also known as the Nazi Party. Born on April 20, 1889, in Braunau am Inn, Austria, he became the Chancellor of Germany in 1933 and later became the dictator (Führer) of Nazi Germany from 1934 until his death in 1945.
The story of Hitler is complex and spans various aspects, but here are the key points in his rise to power and actions during his time as Germany’s leader:
Early life and rise in politics: Hitler had a troubled childhood and aspired to become an artist. However, he joined the German Army during World War I and served as a soldier. After the war, he became involved in politics and joined the German Workers’ Party, which later transformed into the Nazi Party.
Mein Kampf: In 1925, Hitler wrote his autobiographical and political manifesto, “Mein Kampf” (My Struggle), in which he outlined his racist and anti-Semitic views, along with his plans for Germany’s future.
Rise to power: The Nazi Party gained popularity in the early 1930s amid the economic turmoil of the Great Depression. Hitler’s charisma and powerful speeches attracted many followers. In the 1932 elections, the Nazi Party became the largest in the German Reichstag. President Paul von Hindenburg appointed him as Chancellor on January 30, 1933.
Consolidation of power: After becoming Chancellor, Hitler quickly moved to eliminate political opposition and consolidate power. The Reichstag Fire in February 1933 allowed him to push through the Reichstag Fire Decree, which suspended civil liberties and paved the way for authoritarian rule.
Enabling Act: In March 1933, Hitler successfully pushed for the passage of the Enabling Act, which granted him dictatorial powers, allowing him to bypass the Reichstag and govern by decree.
Persecution of minorities: Hitler and the Nazi regime implemented a series of discriminatory laws and policies targeting Jews, as well as other minority groups, including Roma, disabled individuals, LGBTQ+ individuals, and political dissidents. This persecution intensified over time and culminated in the Holocaust, during which millions of Jews and others were systematically murdered in concentration and extermination camps.
Expansionist policies: Hitler pursued an aggressive foreign policy, aiming to expand German territory and establish a dominant position in Europe. This led to the annexation of Austria (Anschluss) in 1938 and the occupation of Czechoslovakia.
Outbreak of World War II: Hitler’s territorial ambitions and aggressive actions eventually led to the outbreak of World War II in September 1939 when Germany invaded Poland.
Defeat and death: As the war progressed, Germany faced significant military defeats. In April 1945, with Allied forces closing in on Berlin, Hitler committed suicide in his underground bunker on April 30, 1945.
Hitler’s legacy is one of infamy and serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked authoritarianism, racism, and hatred. The atrocities committed under his regime during the Holocaust have left a lasting impact on the world’s history and collective memory.