Critically examine the reasons for Hitler's rise to power

Critically examine the reasons for Hitler's rise to power

Adolf Hitler, one of the most notorious leaders of the 20th century, came to power in Germany, when he became chancellor in 1933. What is most intriguing is the fact that he came to power through legal means, through elections. Therefore, we must ask the important question of why did Hitler rise to power? This essay will critically examine a few of these reasons -- problems that plagued the Weimar Republic from the beginning, Hitler's personality, the Great Depression, the support of the elites and political intrigue during the period of 1932-33.

One of the major arguments put forth by pessimist historians for the rise of Hitler are the problems that plagued the Weimar Republic from the beginning. They argue that the fall of the Weimar Republic and the rise of Hitler were inevitable. The Weimar Republic was established as a result of the defeat of Germany during World War 1. The Weimar Republic was burdened by th...