1. What steps did Hitler take to consolidate his power as dictator from 1933-1934?
Give 3 examples.

2. One of the most important events was the “Night of the Long Knives”

3. We are learning to Describe the events of the Night of the Long Knives
Evaluate its importance in the Nazi consolidation of power

4. 30 June 1934
Now Hitler had wiped out the competition in Germany he now wanted to get rid of any ‘threats’ within the party
He used the SS to kill anyone who had annoyed him in the past, including many loyal SA members

5. Why do you think the events of the Night of the Long Knives are so significant?
Give 2 reasons

6. The Night of the Long Knives
Now I have got rid of opposition political groups, I can now deal with opposition in my party. Ernst Rohm (an old friend), head of the S.A. is very unpopular with the German army leaders. They have the power to overthrow me.I’ve been worried about Rohm for a while, so this is a good excuse to bump him off.
June 1934

7. Ernst Röhm was one of those shot dead
On 30th June 1934 the murders of any ‘threats’ to Hitler were carried out
Hitler claimed these people were trying to overthrow him
Around 400 people were killed under Hitler’s orders
Strangely many Germans approved of Hitler’s actions because they hated the bullies of the SA
Ernst Röhm was one of those shot dead

8. 2nd August 1934 – Hindenburg dies
Hindenburg’s death truly marked the end of a democratic Germany
Hitler took the step of combining the roles of President and Chancellor
This new role would be ‘Der Führer’ – The Leader

9. Within hours of Hindenburg’s death Hitler arranged for each army member to swear an oath of loyalty to Hitler
Why do you think Hitler made the Army swear a personal oath of loyalty to him?
What would happen if they refused?

10. Army officers taking an oath loyalty to Hitler

11. Task: Timeline of Hitler Taking Power
Create a timeline which shows the steps in establishing the Nazi dictatorship
It should start on 30th January 1933
It should end on 2nd August 1934
It should contain six key steps
Each one should be as detailed as possible
30th Jan 1933
2nd August 1934