Great events of history and prophecy often occur in ways we cannot foretell and arise out of events that, at least on the surface, appear to be a solution to a crisis. Such was the case with the unexpected rise to power of Adolf Hitler in Germany in 1933.
Germany was in the grip of economic depression. The Weimar Republic had failed to provide a recovery in the post—World War I years. The heavy penalty of reparations imposed by the victorious Allied powers left the country crippled, its pride bitterly bruised. Into this breach stepped Hitler and his National Socialist Party. The Austrian corporal had organized a movement in southern Germany that had galvanized many who were looking for a way forward under strong, dynamic leadership. Germans strongly desired a restoration of German pride in power and strength, along with a place among the nations. Stability, prosperity and security were fundamental promises made by Hitler's movement.
On Jan. 30, 1933, Hitler was sworn in as chancellor of Germany after a legal election. But his Nazi party did not hold a majority in the Reichstag, the parliament, thwarting his plans for total power. New parliamentary elections were called and held on March 5. The Nazis gained seats but still fell short of the clear majority that Hitler desired to establish his dictatorship by consent of the parliament.
Through a series of quick agreements, Hitler managed to gain what he wanted. The Reichstag was "asked to pass an enabling act conferring on Hitler's cabinet exclusive legislative powers for four years. Put even more simply, the German Parliament would be requested to turn over its constitutional functions to Hitler and take a long vacation" (William Shirer, The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich, 1960, p. 196).
This took place on March 23 and formed the basis for Hitler's dictatorship. Hitler was able to boast he was the legal ruler of Germany. All this occurred in less than 60 days. Events can move quickly. The rest is history.
