Origins of the Nazi Party:
- Initially known as the German Workers’ Party, it became the National Socialist German Workers’ Party (NSDAP) after Hitler’s influence.
- The term “socialism” was used to attract workers, but not for nationalization, rather for gaining broader support.
Core Principles of the Nazi Party:
- Unified Germany: Aimed to unite all Germans worldwide and end political division.
- Military State: Re-arming Germany and creating a strong state focused on war.
- Totalitarianism: Establishing a dictatorship with absolute control, using violence and terror to suppress opposition.
- Anti-Communism: Suppressing the spread of communism.
- Racism: Promoted Aryan supremacy, where Aryans (tall, blond, blue-eyed) were seen as the superior race.
- Anti-Semitism: Jews and non-Aryans were seen as inferior and were targeted for extermination.
Support Sources for the Nazi Party:
- Industrialists & Landowners: Feared communism and backed Nazi goals.
- Catholic Centre Party: Moral and financial support helped Hitler’s rise.
- Hitler’s Leadership: Strong leadership attracted many followers.
Storm Troopers & Gestapo: Used violence and intimidation to enforce loyalty.