Question

Another reason why the Reichstag Fire was important is that Hitler was able to use the powers given to him by 'The Decree for the Protection of People and State' to make his dictatorship appear to be legal and to create a dictatorship?

Answer 1

The Reichstag Fire was a crucial event that enabled Hitler to obtain emergency powers and pass the Enabling Act, which allowed him to legislate without parliament, leading to the establishment of his dictatorship.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Reichstag Fire served as a pivotal event enabling Hitler to establish a dictatorship under the guise of legal measures. Immediately following the fire, which was attributed to communist insurgents, Hitler convinced President Hindenburg and the Nazi Party-controlled Reichstag to bestow upon him 'emergency powers.' These powers, justified as necessary to protect the state, were solidified through the Reichstag Fire Decree, which suspended civil liberties and facilitated the suppression of political opposition, including the arrest of thousands of communists.

Subsequently, the Enabling Act was passed in March 1933, granting Hitler the authority to enact laws independently of the Reichstag and the Constitution. This act was crucial in Hitler's rapid acquisition of power, eventually culminating in the creation of a one-party totalitarian regime. By outlawing all parties other than the Nazis and merging the positions of President and Chancellor into that of 'Führer,' Hitler eliminated any remaining opposition, effectively completing his transition to dictator.