Hitler becomes Führer

• Between the 29th and 30th June of 1934, the night of long knives occurred, where around 200 SA leaders were dragged out of bed and shot at Nazi Headquarters. Rohm refused to commit suicide so was shot
• After Hindenburg died in August 1934, Hitler made himself president, which ensured there was no power above him
• President Hindenburg was the only person senior to Hitler. In August 1934, he died. Within hours, a Law Concerning the Head of State merged the offices of Chancellor and President to create a new office of Führer.
• The SS was set up by Hitler in 1925 to act as his bodyguards. They were a select group run firstly by Schreck and then by Himmler. They appeared menacing in their black uniforms
• Hitler felt that he could not trust Rohm, as Rohm disliked his policies and the SA felt undervalued as they were still unemployed
• The leaders of the SS wanted the SA to reduce in size so that they could increase their power
• Hitler used propaganda to ensure that he looked all powerful. The ‘Heil Hitler!’ Nazi salute made people swear loyalty to him personally, and he was portrayed as having superhuman, heroic qualities.
• After the night of long knives, Papens staff were arrested and his house was surrounded. This ensured that Papen could not keep an eye on him
• People did not realise how many were being killed over Hitler's rule, people more focused on the decrease of power of the SA. Schleicher was also arrested