Germany, in the early 1930s, was in turmoil. Unemployment, political chaos, and fears of a revolution characterized this era. These conditions paved the way for the Nazis to rise to power.

💡 Fun Fact: Imagine if, during a major economic recession, a group as influential as BTS tried to enter politics. That's the level of influence the Nazis were gaining.

• Election Outcomes
  • Nazis: 107 seats.
  • Communists: Gained 23 seats, total 77.
  • Brüning & Hindenburg: Support from only 1/3 of Reichstag members.
• Brüning’s Decisions
  • Continued economic measures that didn’t really address the crisis.
  • Got reparations from Allies canceled in 1932.
  • BUT German families still suffered.
• Fear Factor: People feared Germany was inching closer to a revolution.
• SA Banned: To reduce street violence, the SA was banned in April 1932.
• 1932 Presidential Election
  • Hitler vs. Hindenburg.
  • Hindenburg won, but Hitler secured 37% of the vote.
• Leadership Swap: Hindenburg lost confidence in Brüning. Franz von Papen took over in May 1932.

💡 Real-world Example: It's like when your favorite show replaces the main character - everyone's uneasy, and some fans (or in this case, citizens) aren't happy.

• Who’s Really in Charge?: While Papen was in title, real power was with Schleicher (Defence Minister).
• Schleicher’s View: Nazis should be in the government to boost popularity and push an authoritarian agenda.
• Hitler's Ambition: He only wanted to be Chancellor, nothing less.
• ‘Cabinet of Barons’: None were Reichstag members. The Weimar Republic was essentially dead.
• Reversal & Elections
  • SA ban lifted.
  • New elections led to Nazis securing 37.8% votes, becoming the biggest Reichstag party.
• Power Struggle: Hindenburg didn’t want Hitler in charge, only offered Vice Chancellor position.

💡 Fun Fact: It's like being the top scorer in a football match but not being chosen as captain!