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1918 - End of World War I
The German Empire collapses, leading to political instability and the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, which imposes heavy reparations and territorial losses on Germany. -
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1919 - Formation of the German Workers' Party (DAP)
Anton Drexler and others establish the DAP, which lays the groundwork for what will become the Nazi Party. -
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1920 - Rebranding to National Socialist German Workers' Party (NSDAP)
The DAP is renamed NSDAP. Adolf Hitler joins the party and begins to gain influence. -
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1923 - Beer Hall Putsch
Hitler attempts a coup in Munich to overthrow the Weimar government but is arrested. This event raises his profile nationally. -
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1924 - Hitler’s Prison Sentence
After the failed putsch, Hitler is sentenced to prison where he writes "Mein Kampf," outlining his ideology and political plans. -
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1925 - NSDAP Reorganization
After his release from prison, Hitler rebuilds the party, emphasizing propaganda and mass rallies to attract new members. -
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1929 - The Great Depression Begins
The global economic crisis leads to widespread unemployment and social unrest in Germany, increasing public support for extremist parties, including the Nazis. -
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1930 - Electoral Gains
In the Reichstag elections, the NSDAP wins 18.3% of the vote, becoming the second-largest party and gaining significant representation. -
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1932 - Major Electoral Victories
The Nazis become the largest party in the Reichstag in July, winning 230 seats but failing to gain an outright majority. -
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1933 - Hitler Appointed Chancellor
On January 30, 1933, Adolf Hitler is appointed Chancellor of Germany, marking the beginning of Nazi rule and the dismantling of democracy.