In this episode, we’ll discuss the Night of the Long Knives and its significance in solidifying Hitler's power. We’ll explain how Hitler perceived the SA and its leader, Röhm, as threats to his authority and sought the loyalty of the smaller but disciplined German army and the SS, led by Himmler. On June 30, 1934, Hitler ordered the SS to purge the SA, resulting in the deaths of 400 SA members, including Röhm, and other opponents like former Chancellor von Schleicher. This event eliminated internal opposition within the Nazi Party. We’ll also explore how Hitler's actions secured the support of military leaders, leading to his rise as Führer after President Hindenburg's death in August 1934. Finally, we’ll examine how Hitler enforced loyalty through oaths to him personally and established total control over local government through the Law for the Reconstruction of the Reich.
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