Which of the following was a more significant reason for Hitler’s appointment as Chancellor in 1933? i. The popular appeal of Nazism ii. ‘Backstairs Intrigue’ Explain your answer with reference to both (i) and (ii).

The appointment of Adolf Hitler as Chancellor of Germany in January 1933 was a pivotal moment in the country’s history, marking the beginning of the Nazi regime. While the Nazi Party had gained considerable popularity in the years leading up to Hitler’s appointment, it is crucial to analyze the complex interplay of factors that contributed to his rise to power. This essay argues that while the popular appeal of Nazism played a significant role, it was ultimately ‘backstairs intrigue’ that secured Hitler’s appointment as Chancellor.

The Popular Appeal of Nazism was undeniably a significant factor in Hitler’s rise. The economic depression of the 1930s had left Germany in a state of despair, with high unemployment, social unrest, and a sense of humiliation following defeat in World War I. Nazi propaganda effectively exploited these anxieties, offering a scapegoat in the form of Jewish people and communists, who were blamed for Germany’s woes.

Nazi policies resonated with many Germans who sought radical change. The promise of economic recovery, national pride, and a strong, authoritarian leader resonated deeply with a population disillusioned with the Weimar Republic. The party's extremist ideology appealed to those seeking a sense of belonging and purpose, particularly among the youth.

Nazi electoral successes were further evidence of the party’s growing popularity. The Nazis secured a significant number of seats in the Reichstag in the 1930 and 1932 elections, demonstrating their ability to mobilize a large segment of the electorate. However, it is crucial to note that the Nazis never achieved an outright majority in the Reichstag, suggesting that their support, while significant, was not sufficient to secure power alone.

While the Nazis demonstrated significant popular appeal, their rise to power was ultimately facilitated by ‘Backstairs Intrigue’. Hitler was not elected Chancellor but rather appointed by President Paul von Hindenburg, who was persuaded by a combination of factors.

One key aspect was the conservative politicians’ underestimation of the Nazi threat. They mistakenly saw Hitler as a tool they could use to control the far-right and prevent a communist revolution.

The second election of 1932, in which the Nazi Party actually lost seats, further cemented this belief. Conservative politicians were willing to accept Hitler’s leadership as Chancellor as they believed they could control him.

However, Hitler was a cunning and opportunistic politician who was able to skillfully exploit the internal divisions within the conservative camp. He managed to form alliances with influential figures such as Franz von Papen, who ultimately convinced Hindenburg to appoint him Chancellor. This was despite the fact that Hitler was not the most popular choice amongst the conservative politicians.

In conclusion, while the popular appeal of Nazism undoubtedly played a role in Hitler’s rise, it was ‘backstairs intrigue’ that ultimately tipped the scales in his favor. The conservatives’ underestimation of Hitler and their eagerness to utilize him for their own purposes, combined with his own manipulative skills, enabled him to secure the position of Chancellor. While the Nazi Party had significant public support, it was through political maneuvering and the willingness of conservative politicians to grant him power that Hitler was able to gain control of Germany and usher in the era of the Third Reich.