... laws without having to consult the Reichstag. Hitler then set about the process of eliminating any opposition towards the NSDAP from within both the government and within society in general. Hitler dissolved any opposition parties and the Nazi's proclaimed themselves as the only legal party in Germany on July 14th 1933. Hitler had created a one party state within months of being appointed chancellor. Hitler had authorised the murders of some of his left-wing supporters in the SA; it is suggested that several hundred members of the SA were seen to be a threat and were eliminated in the Night of the Long Knives. (Wolfson & Laver, Years of Change; p 210) This state violence against political opposition demonstrates totalitarian characteristics from the beginning of Hitler's government. As the death of President Hindenburg looked imminent, Hitler announced his Law concerning Head of State, allowing him to combine both the role ...

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