Adolf Hitler – Life, Rise to Power, Dictatorship and Historical Impact
Adolf Hitler was one of the most notorious political leaders of the 20th century, known primarily for the Second World War and the Holocaust of the Jewish people. He was the dictator of Germany and the chief leader of the Nazi Party.
Early Life
Birth and Family
Born: 20 April 1889, Austria (Braunau am Inn)
Father: Alois Hitler – a government employee
Mother: Klara Hitler
Youth and Struggles
Hitler wanted to become an artist, but he was not accepted into the Art School of Vienna. Later, he moved to Munich (Germany) and joined the German Army during the First World War.
Political Rise
Joining the Nazi Party
In 1919, he joined the German Workers' Party, which was later renamed the Nazi Party. In 1923, he attempted a failed power grab known as the Beer Hall Putsch, due to which he was imprisoned.
Writing of “Mein Kampf”
During his time in prison, he wrote his autobiography “Mein Kampf”, where he explained his ideas and future plans—such as racism, hatred toward Jews, and the dream of German dominance.
Becoming Chancellor and Dictator
Gaining Complete Control
In 1933, Hitler was appointed Chancellor of Germany. He soon dissolved the parliament, ended democracy, and established a dictatorship. In 1934, he became the “Führer” (supreme leader) and took complete control of the state.
Policies and Crimes
Hitler created harsh policies against Jews, Gypsies, homosexuals, disabled people, and other minorities. Millions of Jews were murdered in what history knows as the Holocaust. He spread the ideology of Aryan racial supremacy and hatred-based nationalism.
Second World War
The Beginning of the War
In 1939, Hitler attacked Poland, which led to the beginning of the Second World War. Gradually, the Nazis captured many parts of Europe.
The Turning Point
In 1941, he attacked the Soviet Union, and later the United States also joined the war. The tide of the war turned in favor of the Allied Powers (America, Britain, and the Soviet Union).
Death
On 30 April 1945, when the Soviet Army reached Berlin, Hitler committed suicide. A few days after his death, Germany surrendered.
Legacy and Impact
Hitler is counted among the most cruel and dictatorial leaders in history. His policies and the war he initiated caused the deaths of nearly 70 million people. His rule stands as a warning of how dictatorship can rise when democracy becomes weak.
Adolf Hitler – Early Life and Political Rise
Initial Life
Adolf Hitler’s early life was very ordinary yet filled with conflict. His childhood, family conditions, and early experiences deeply shaped his later personality and ideology.
Birth and Family
Full Name: Adolf Hitler
Born: April 20, 1889
Place: Braunau am Inn, Austria (then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire)
Father: Alois Hitler – a strict government officer
Mother: Klara Hitler – extremely loving and very close to Hitler
Academic Life
Hitler received general schooling in his childhood. He was an average student, but he had a deep interest in art and drawing. He tried twice to get admission into the Vienna Academy of Fine Arts but failed both times. These repeated setbacks caused frustration and emotional bitterness within him. He often blamed Jews and other communities for his failures.
Economic Struggles
While living in Vienna, Hitler faced terrifying poverty. He sold postcards on the streets and sometimes spent nights in homeless shelters. During this time, his political thinking and hatred toward Jews grew strongly. He became a hardcore supporter of German nationalism even though he himself was Austrian.
Participation in World War I
In 1914, when the First World War broke out, Hitler volunteered to join the German Army. He fought on the fronts of France and Belgium. He was injured twice during the war and received the Iron Cross for bravery. After the war, Germany’s defeat and humiliation increased his anger and strengthened his nationalism.
Impact of Early Life
Hitler’s early life was filled with struggles, rejection, poverty, and wartime experiences. During this phase:
- His hatred against Jews intensified,
- He adopted the idea of German (Aryan) superiority,
- And he developed the desire to become a leader who could make Germany “great” again.
Political Rise
Adolf Hitler’s political rise is considered one of the most significant and dangerous developments of the 20th century. His rise was a mixture of democratic failure, public frustration, and the power of propaganda.
1. Post-War Discontent
After World War I (1914–1918), Germany faced humiliation due to the Treaty of Versailles (1919). Germany suffered heavy financial penalties and territorial losses. The country fell into economic crisis, unemployment, and political instability. Amid this situation, people began to desire a strong “nationalistic” leader.
2. Joining the Nazi Party
In 1919, Hitler joined the German Workers’ Party. In 1920, he renamed it the National Socialist German Workers’ Party (NSDAP), commonly known as the Nazi Party. Using his powerful oratory, propaganda skills, and extreme nationalism, Hitler quickly gained leadership within the party.
3. Beer Hall Putsch (1923)
In 1923, Hitler attempted an armed revolt in Munich to seize power, known as the Beer Hall Putsch. The attempt failed, and he was imprisoned. During jail, he wrote his ideological book “Mein Kampf” (My Struggle), where he described:
- Aryan racial superiority,
- Hatred toward Jews,
- Anger against the Treaty of Versailles,
- And his plan to make Germany powerful again.
4. Gaining Power Through Legal Means
After being released from prison, Hitler decided to acquire power through democratic elections instead of armed revolt. During the 1930s, Germany suffered from the Great Depression and high unemployment, which made the Nazi Party increasingly popular. Hitler blamed Jews, Communists, and “traitors” for Germany’s problems and presented himself as the strong leader who could save the nation.
5. Becoming Chancellor (1933)
In the 1932 elections, the Nazi Party became the largest party in Germany. In January 1933, President Paul von Hindenburg appointed Hitler as Chancellor (Prime Minister) of Germany.
6. Establishment of Dictatorship
After the Reichstag Fire in February 1933, Hitler declared an “Emergency,” suspending civil liberties. In March 1933, the Enabling Act was passed, allowing Hitler to bypass parliament and take full control. After President Hindenburg’s death in 1934, Hitler merged the posts of Chancellor and President and declared himself Führer (Supreme Leader).
7. Propaganda and Repression
Through Propaganda Minister Joseph Goebbels, Hitler created blind devotion in the minds of the masses. Opponents were either killed or sent to prisons by the Gestapo (secret police) and Nazi militia (SS, SA). Germany was completely transformed into a dictatorship.
Conclusion
Hitler’s political rise was not only the result of his abilities, but also of the economic crisis, democratic failure, and public disappointment of that era. It shows how a leader can exploit the emotions and problems of common people to end democracy and establish tyranny.
Adolf Hitler – Policies, Crimes, and World War II
Policies and Crimes
Adolf Hitler’s policies and crimes were among the most cruel and inhuman events in world history. His policies not only strengthened dictatorship but also led to the death of millions, mass human-rights abuses, and the destruction of entire civilizations.
1. Racial Policies
Aryan Supremacy
Hitler promoted the idea that the “Aryan” race (especially Germans) was the purest and superior race in the world. He considered Jews, Slavs (Poles, Russians), Gypsies, Black people, disabled individuals, and homosexuals as “inferior” and “impure.”
Antisemitism
Hitler blamed Jewish people for Germany’s economic crises, the Treaty of Versailles, and the defeat in World War I. In 1935, the Nuremberg Laws were introduced:
- Jews were deprived of German citizenship.
- Marriage or sexual relations between Jews and Aryan Germans were made illegal.
2. The Holocaust – The Biggest Crime
“Final Solution”
The Final Solution was Hitler’s plan to completely exterminate the Jewish population. From 1941 onward, millions of Jews were:
- Sent to concentration camps (Auschwitz, Dachau, etc.),
- Killed in gas chambers,
- Starved, or used in brutal medical experiments.
Estimated deaths: 6 million Jews.
3. Propaganda and Brainwashing
Under Propaganda Minister Joseph Goebbels, media, schools, films, and radio were used to create blind loyalty toward Hitler. Children were forced to join “Hitler Youth,” where they received military-style training and Nazi ideological education.
4. One-Party Dictatorship
The Nazi Party was declared the only legal political party. All opposition parties and trade unions were banned or destroyed. Opponents were:
- Arrested by the Gestapo (secret police),
- Tortured, or killed.
5. Militarism and Expansion
Hitler violated the Treaty of Versailles by rebuilding Germany’s army. He captured the Rhineland, Austria (Anschluss), and parts of Czechoslovakia. In 1939, his invasion of Poland started World War II.
6. War Crimes
During the war, Nazi forces committed mass atrocities:
- Murder of millions of civilians,
- Brutality against prisoners of war,
- Destruction of towns and property,
- Mass rape of women,
- Forced labor and slavery.
7. Killing of Disabled and Mentally Ill (Euthanasia Program)
Under the T4 Program, Hitler approved the killing of mental patients, disabled people, and the elderly. This reflected the Nazi belief that certain lives had “no value.”
8. Control Over Education and Culture
Schools taught only Nazi ideology. Books written by Jewish or liberal authors were burned. Art, literature, films, and music were strictly controlled according to Nazi beliefs.
Conclusion on Policies and Crimes
Hitler’s policies not only expanded dictatorship but also:
- Committed Crimes Against Humanity,
- Took millions of innocent lives,
- Pushed civilization into darkness.
During the Nuremberg Trials (1945–46), several Nazi leaders were prosecuted and many were executed for their crimes.
Second World War (World War II)
Introduction to World War II
World War II (1939–1945) was the most devastating and widespread conflict of the 20th century. Almost all major countries of the world participated, and nearly 70 million people lost their lives. The war was mainly triggered by Adolf Hitler’s aggressive foreign policies and expansionist ambitions.
Basic Details
Duration: 1 September 1939 – 2 September 1945
Allied Powers: Britain, France, Soviet Union (later), USA, China, etc.
Axis Powers: Germany, Italy, Japan
Main Causes of the War
- Treaty of Versailles (1919): Harsh punishment on Germany created anger and nationalism.
- Hitler’s Expansionism: Plans to make Germany “great again,” capturing Austria and Czechoslovakia.
- Failure of the League of Nations: Could not maintain peace.
- Imperialism by Japan and Italy: Japan expanded in China and Asia; Italy attacked Ethiopia.
- Appeasement Policy: Britain and France did not stop Hitler’s early aggression.
Key Events of World War II
1. Invasion of Poland (1 September 1939)
Hitler attacked Poland. Britain and France declared war on Germany.
2. Capture of France and Western Europe (1940)
Germany quickly defeated Belgium, the Netherlands, and France.
3. Battle of Britain (1940)
Germany tried to destroy British air bases but failed.
4. Attack on the Soviet Union (Operation Barbarossa – 1941)
Hitler’s attack on the Soviet Union eventually became one of Germany’s biggest failures.
5. Attack on Pearl Harbor (7 December 1941)
Japan attacked the US naval base Pearl Harbor. The United States entered the war.
6. Battle of Stalingrad (1942–43)
The Soviet Union defeated the German army. This battle is considered the turning point of the war.
7. D-Day (6 June 1944)
Allied nations landed on the Normandy coast of France, starting the liberation of Western Europe.
8. Fall of Berlin and Hitler’s Suicide (April 1945)
The Soviet Army reached Berlin. Hitler committed suicide on 30 April 1945. Germany surrendered on 8 May 1945.
9. Atomic Bombs on Japan (August 1945)
The United States dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima (6 August) and Nagasaki (9 August). Japan surrendered on 2 September 1945.
Results of World War II
Global Impact
- Nearly 70 million deaths
- Millions displaced
- Mass destruction in Europe and Asia
Political Changes
- Defeat of Germany, Italy, and Japan
- Formation of the United Nations (1945)
- Rise of the USA and the Soviet Union as superpowers → Start of the Cold War
End of Nazi Ideology
- Nazi leaders prosecuted in the Nuremberg Trials
- Exposure of the Holocaust crimes
Conclusion
World War II was not just a military conflict — it was a massive human tragedy. The war proved that:
- If dictatorship is not stopped in time,
- And if hatred and fanaticism are encouraged,
- The entire world can be pushed toward destruction.
Death of Adolf Hitler
The death of Adolf Hitler was one of the most decisive events marking the end of the Second World War. As Germany continued to face defeat, Hitler’s mental stability deteriorated, and he ultimately chose suicide as his final option.
Time and Place
Date: April 30, 1945
Location: Berlin, Germany
Specific Place: The Führerbunker – Hitler’s underground headquarters located near the Chancellery in Berlin.
Circumstances of Death
The Soviet Army had reached very close to Berlin. The Red Army had surrounded the city entirely. Hitler realized that Germany’s defeat was inevitable.
On April 29, 1945, Hitler married Eva Braun, his longtime companion. On April 30, both committed suicide together:
- Hitler shot himself in the head using his pistol.
- Eva Braun consumed cyanide poison.
What Happened to the Bodies?
Hitler had ordered that after his death, his body should be burned to prevent the Soviet Army from desecrating it. His close associates, including Joseph Goebbels, carried his and Eva Braun’s bodies outside the bunker, poured petrol over them, and set them on fire.
Controversies and Confirmation
For many years, the Soviet Union did not officially confirm Hitler’s death, creating global mystery. Rumors spread throughout the world claiming that Hitler had escaped—particularly to Argentina.
However, later:
- Soviet reports,
- Eyewitness testimonies,
- And forensic evidence
confirmed clearly that Hitler died by suicide on April 30, 1945.
Importance of His Death
Just a few days after Hitler’s death:
- Germany surrendered on May 7, 1945.
- May 8, 1945, is celebrated as VE Day (Victory in Europe Day), marking the end of the war in Europe.
Conclusion
Adolf Hitler’s suicide marked the symbolic end of one of the most brutal dictatorships in history. He gained no victory and left behind destructive ideology and devastation. His death proved a vital truth:
“Hatred, fanaticism, and dictatorship always end in destruction.”
Heritage and Impact of Adolf Hitler
Adolf Hitler’s heritage remains extremely controversial, brutal, and cautionary. His actions deeply wounded not only Germany but the entire world. Even today, Hitler’s name is associated with dictatorship, genocide, and hate-driven politics.
1. Political Impact
Warning Against Dictatorship
Hitler’s government demonstrates how a democratic system can be hollowed out from within and replaced by dictatorship. He rose to power through legal means and then destroyed democracy completely.
Study of Totalitarianism
Across the world, Hitler is studied as one of the most dangerous examples of totalitarian authoritarianism. His rule is a textbook case of how absolute power can corrupt a nation.
2. Decline of Nazi Ideology
Rejection of Racial Superiority
Hitler spread ideas such as Aryan racial superiority, antisemitism, and racial discrimination. After World War II and the Holocaust, such ideologies were rejected globally. They became symbols of hatred and inhumanity.
Growth of Human Rights Awareness
After Hitler’s crimes were exposed, global emphasis on human rights protection increased. Institutions like the United Nations became more active, leading to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948).
3. Impact of the Second World War
Shift in World Order
After World War II:
- The United Nations (UN) was established.
- The Cold War began, with the USA and Soviet Union emerging as superpowers.
- A new political and geographical map of Europe was created.
Division of Germany
Germany was divided into East Germany and West Germany. The Berlin Wall kept the nation separated until 1989.
4. The Holocaust and Crimes Against Humanity
Jewish Remembrance and Warning to Humanity
Hitler’s regime murdered around 6 million Jews — a tragedy known as the Holocaust. Today, the Holocaust is remembered globally as a historical warning against hatred and tyranny.
Use in Education
Schools, universities, and museums teach the history of Hitler’s regime to ensure such atrocities never happen again.
5. Impact on Modern Politics
Identification of Extreme Nationalism
Hitler’s ideology still influences some extremist groups such as “Neo-Nazis” and “White Supremacy” movements. Around the world, if any leader promotes excessive nationalism or attacks minorities, comparisons to Hitler are often drawn.
6. Cultural and Popular Impact
Films and Literature
Hundreds of films, documentaries, books, and plays have been made about Hitler, including:
- Schindler’s List
- The Pianist
- Downfall (Der Untergang)
Research and Analysis
Historians, psychologists, and sociologists have conducted thousands of studies to understand how one individual could spread such large-scale violence and hatred.
Conclusion
Hitler’s heritage is known as one of the darkest chapters in human history. It shows how hatred, propaganda, and the hunger for power can turn a person into a destroyer of humanity. His impact serves as a permanent warning for future generations.
References
- Shirer, William L. The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich. Simon & Schuster, 1960.
- Kershaw, Ian. Hitler: A Biography. W. W. Norton & Company, 2008.
- Evans, Richard J. The Third Reich at War. Penguin, 2009.
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. “Adolf Hitler: Biography.”
- Encyclopedia Britannica. “Adolf Hitler.”