The period between the two world wars experienced the rise of Nazism in Germany. The Main Causes Leading to the Rise of Nazism are as follows.
Causes Leading to the Rise of Nazism
Humiliating Treaty of Versailles
- Germany was defeated in the First World War and was forced to sign the humiliating Treaty of Versailles.
- Several harsh terms were imposed on Germany by the victorious nations. Its overseas colonies were seized by the Allied powers, he had to pay a huge war indemnity of 33 billion dollars, the Rhine area was demilitarised and many of his mineral territories were captured.
- Hitler openly defied the treaty and asked the Germans to support him into building a new powerful Germany.
Growing Fear of Communism
- The communists had organized themselves in Germany, and they had succeeded in capturing many seats in the Reichstag.
- Hitler criticized the growing influence of communism and asked the Germans to vote for him as Nazis could alone check the rising tide of communism.
Economic Crisis
- The economic conditions of Germany deteriorated after her defeat in the First World War. Her industrial and agricultural production declined.
- Many countries raised tariffs on German manufactured goods and the number of unemployed youth increased.
- Hitler promised the people of economic restructuring and reorganization of German finances after forming the government.
Rise of Militant Nationalism
Hitler assured the people that he would work to regain the lost glory of Germany and make Germany an all-powerful nation. People thus began to support him.
Anti-Semitic Propaganda
- Hitler carried on anti-Semitic propaganda. He said that the Jews had conspired with the Allies during the First World War and were responsible for the defeat of Germany.
- Because of his anti-Semitic propaganda, many Germans began to support him.
Charismatic Personality of Hitler
- Hitler had a charismatic personality. He was an excellent orator; through his speeches, he made people believe that only he can work for the upliftment of Germany.
- He was a shrewd politician. He assured the people that their economic woes would come to an end after the formation of the government by the Nazis.
- He devised a new style of politics. Massive rallies and public meetings were held by the Nazis to display the strength of the party. Nazi propaganda also skilfully projected Hitler as a messiah who could deliver people from their distress. He captured the imagination of the Germans.
Absence of Strong Opposition
There was an absence of a strong opposition party in Germany that could challenge the ideologies and plans of the Nazis. As the Nazis did not encounter any effective resistance, Hitler became extremely popular with the people.
Also, Read Rise of Dictatorship