Caroline RothsteinVerified account

While in prison, Hitler had the proper time to author Mien Kampf, sorting out the ideals that would become the Nazi bible.

Upon his prison release in 1925, Hitler realized that power would only be achieved by legitimate means rather than by force. He re-founded the NSDAP and the SS, who would act as his personal bodyguards.

Now, Hitler needed civilian support in order for the Nazis to have seats in the Reichstag. He was supported by people effected financially by the weaknesses of Weimar and therefore needed either a strong central government to boast the economy or employment,

which the Nazi party would provide. Other supporters simply hated what he hated. His supporters included Nationalists who opposed the Versailles settlement, anti-communists, militia, industrialists, farming communities affected by the agricultural slump in Germany, racists, and

some unemployed. The most significant group of supporters was the middle class who had seen their savings ruined under Weimar and preferred to vote for the NSDAP to the Socialist party.

Hugenberg’s National party and other wealthy industrialist who approved of Hitler’s anti-communist slogan funded the Nazi campaign.

After the Wall Street crash, the illusion of a prosperous Germany dissipated so extremist parties were able to gain votes. In February 1932, Hitler became a German citizen and aimed twice for the presidency. He was defeated both times by Hindenburg,

but managed to have 13.5 million votes versus Hindenburg’s 19.5 million, proving his increasing popularity. By July 1932, the Nazi’s had 230 of 603 seats in the Reichstag. Hitler’s aim was to be Chancellor, but at first Hindenburg refused.