The rise of the Nazi Party

1929-1939

Middle-class fears of the rise

of Communism

Suspicion and dislike of banks

as a result of the Great

Depression

Popular mythology linking

banks and the Jews

False application of Darwin’s

theories to society

Many unemployed people

who craved a purpose in life

Reasons for popularity of extreme nationalism across Europe

Countries need a strong leader Democracy is weak and

ineffective Young people should be

organized in a military fashion All groups – trade unions,

professional associations, sports clubs etc. should be controlled by the State

Only one political party should be permitted

Countries need a powerful army

Main beliefs of fascism

Massive unemployment and inflation

Fears of Communism Dislike of Jews as agents of

capital Humiliation and Germany’s

defeat in World War I Anger at terms of the Treaty

of Versailles Existence of many

paramilitary groups of ex-soldiers, often secretly supported by the Army

Charismatic personality of Adolf Hitler

Huge, visually-impressive Party rallies

Reasons why Nazism became popular in Germany