Role of SA

• How did politics in 1920s Germany differ from today?

  Local meetings were more important than media.
• What was the role of the SA in Nazi Germany?

  To protect Nazi speakers at events.
• What was the initial purpose of the SA when formed in 1920?

  To serve as the sports detachment of the Nazis.
• How did the SA contribute to the Nazis' revolutionary plans?

  They were crucial in the Munich Putsch.
• What was the SA's role after the Nazis shifted to democratic methods?

  Disrupting opponents' meetings, especially Communists.
• What was the name of the Communist paramilitary organization?

  Red Front Fighters' League.
• What did the SA's violence represent to many Germans?

  Practical measures against the spread of Communism.
• How many SA men were killed in July 1932?

  Nearly 100 SA men.
• What image did the SA project through their uniforms and marches?

  Discipline and organization like soldiers.
• Why did the SA appeal to the middle classes?

  They offered protection from rising Communism.
• Who led the SA from 1921-23 and 1930-34?

  Ernst Rohm.
• What did many soldiers seek by joining the SA?

  Comradeship and a sense of purpose.
• By 1933, how many members did the SA have?

  500,000 members.
• What caused tension between the SA and the Nazi Party?

  SA's desire for revolution versus legal strategy.
• What did Walter Stennes demand from the Nazi Party?

  More funding for the SA.
• What was the outcome of Hitler's meeting with Stennes?

  Agreement to increase funding for the SA.
• What were the main functions of the SA in Nazi Germany?

  • Protection of Nazi speakers
  • Disruption of opponents' meetings
  • Display of discipline and order
  • Control of streets against Communists
• What factors contributed to the SA's appeal to members?

  • Comradeship reminiscent of military life
  • Provision of food, uniforms, and shelter
  • Sense of purpose and action
  • Largely working-class organization
• What was the impact of the SA on Nazi support among the middle classes?

  • Provided protection from Communism
  • Created an image of order and discipline
  • Increased fear of Communist revolution
  • Helped gain control of public perception