The Rest Is History 297: The Nazis: Hitler's Triumph (Part 3)
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Jan 23, 2023 Explore the dramatic events that paved the way for Hitler's rise amid the chaos of the Great Depression. Discover the allure of Nazism through the tragic tale of Horst Wessel, and the fierce rivalries that rocked Weimar Germany. Delve into the misguided political maneuvers of figures like Franz von Papen, and the pivotal miscalculations that enabled the Nazis' ascent. Witness how Hitler's theatrical propaganda and calculated machinations, including the Reichstag fire, ultimately solidified his control over Germany.
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Horst Wessel: Nazi Martyr
- Horst Wessel, a young Nazi, exemplified the party's appeal to youth through violence and pseudo-religious mythology.
- Goebbels promoted Wessel as a martyr, furthering Nazi propaganda.
The Great Depression's Impact on Germany
- The Great Depression's impact on Germany intensified pre-existing social issues, making the Nazis more appealing.
- American loan withdrawals devastated the German economy, leading to widespread unemployment and social unrest.
Divisions within the Left
- The Nazis targeted communists in street fights, but the communists viewed Social Democrats as their primary enemy.
- This division within the left ultimately benefited the Nazis.
