1935 in Germany

1935 in Germany marks a significant year in the history of Germany, during a period known as the Nazi era. This year was characterized by several pivotal events that further entrenched Nazi policies and ideology, both domestically and internationally.

Background

Following the appointment of Adolf Hitler as Chancellor in 1933, Germany saw a rapid transformation into a totalitarian state. The Enabling Act of 1933 gave Hitler plenary powers, effectively making him dictator. By 1935, the Nazi regime had consolidated its control, suppressing opposition and implementing its radical policies.

Events

Nuremberg Laws

One of the most infamous enactments of 1935 were the Nuremberg Laws, passed during the Nuremberg Rally in September. These laws institutionalized racial theories underpinning Nazi ideology. The Reich Citizenship Law and the Law for the Protection of German Blood and German Honor were aimed at preserving the perceived purity of the German race by prohibiting marriages and extramarital intercourse between Jews and non-Jewish Germans, and by depriving Jews of German citizenship.

Reintroduction of Conscription

In a direct violation of the Treaty of Versailles, Germany reintroduced conscription in March 1935, aiming to rebuild its military. This move was a clear signal of Germany's intentions to expand its power and was met with concern by other European nations. The establishment of the Luftwaffe, the German air force, was also announced, further indicating Germany's militaristic ambitions.

Saar Plebiscite

The Saar plebiscite took place in January 1935, where the Saarland, a region that had been under the administration of the League of Nations, voted overwhelmingly to rejoin Germany. This was a significant nationalist victory for the Nazi regime, bolstering its popularity and providing a semblance of legitimacy to its claims of uniting all German-speaking peoples.

Impact

The events of 1935 in Germany had far-reaching implications. The Nuremberg Laws laid the groundwork for the systemic persecution of Jews, which would culminate in the Holocaust. The remilitarization efforts challenged the post-World War I international order and set the stage for World War II.

See also

• History of Germany
• Nazi Germany
• World War II