question_answer 12)

Discuss why Nazism became popular in Germany by 1930.  

Answer:

Nazism became popular for the following reasons   (i) After defeat in the First World War, Germany was forced to sign the harsh and humiliating Treaty of Versailles, in which it was made to accept the guilt for the war. The Germans felt disgraced and humiliated. Consequently, they were made to believe, by Hitler's oratory, that he would restore Germany to its former glory.   (ii) Political parties like the Communists, Socialists, Democrats, etc were not united. There were conflicts between them and the government became weak. The Nazi Party took advantage of the situation and captured power.   (iii) Democracy in Germany was relatively new and it was not strong. It did not appeal to the Germans. They wanted a party and a system that would re-establish the glory and prestige of Germany. So, they were attracted to the Nazi Party.   (iv) Hitler was a great orator and with his speeches he was able to sway the masses and win their confidence, He was able to convince them that he would undo the injustice done and bring back the glory and dignity of the German people. He promised employment for those looking for work. He won over the youth by promising them a secure future.   (v) He got the support of the Army, the industrialists and the landlords because he opposed communism and socialism, which these people also opposed. Thus, Hitler and the Nazi Party were able to win the support of all sections of Germans and so become popular.