Final answer:
The Great Depression and exploitation of anti-Semitic sentiments were crucial to Hitler's rise and the Nazi Party's popularity. The economic crisis shattered faith in the government while anti-Semitism directed blame and built support, culminating in Hitler's appointment as Chancellor and the Nazis' eventual control over Germany.
Step-by-step explanation:
The two historical events that significantly contributed to Hitler's rise to power and the increased support for the Nazi Party were the Great Depression and the political capitalization on anti-Semitic sentiments and scapegoating. The Great Depression, which began in 1929 and severely affected Germany, created economic turmoil and high unemployment, leading to widespread social unrest. This economic crisis eroded confidence in the Weimar Republic and led to greater support for extremist parties like the Nazis, who promised to restore Germany's economic stability and national pride. Furthermore, leveraging longstanding anti-Semitic sentiments in Europe, Hitler and the Nazis accused Jewish individuals of being responsible for both the Depression and Germany's prior defeat in World War I. This blame game galvanized frustrated voters and gained the party significant traction.
By 1932, the Nazi Party had the largest number of seats in the Reichstag. Under pressure from conservative politicians and industrialists, President Paul von Hindenburg appointed Hitler as Chancellor in January 1933. This appointment, despite Hitler losing the presidential election to Hindenburg earlier, paved the way for the Nazis' consolidation of power. Through subsequent elections and political maneuvers, such as the Enabling Act of March 1933, Hitler eliminated democratic governance and established a totalitarian dictatorship.