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Noiser Podcasts - Adolf Hitler Part 14: Night of the Long Knives (Audio Only)

The transcript provides a detailed account of Adolf Hitler's political strategies and actions leading to his absolute control over Germany. It begins with Hitler's uneasy relationship with Mussolini and the international perception of Nazi Germany. The narrative then shifts to internal conflicts, particularly with the SA and its leader Ernst Röhm, who posed a threat to Hitler's plans due to their revolutionary ambitions. The Night of the Long Knives is highlighted as a pivotal event where Hitler eliminated his rivals, including Röhm, under the guise of quelling a coup, thereby consolidating his power. This purge was presented as a necessary action to maintain order, despite its brutal nature. The transcript concludes with Hitler's assumption of full control following President Hindenburg's death, merging the roles of Chancellor and President, and establishing a totalitarian regime. This period marks the establishment of the Third Reich, setting the stage for the subsequent events of World War II and the Holocaust.

Key Points:

Hitler's rise involved strategic alliances and eliminating rivals, notably during the Night of the Long Knives.
The Night of the Long Knives was a purge that solidified Hitler's control by removing SA leaders and other opponents.
Hitler's consolidation of power was marked by merging the roles of Chancellor and President after Hindenburg's death.
The establishment of the Third Reich marked the beginning of a totalitarian regime that led to World War II.
Hitler's actions were justified as maintaining order, but they involved significant violence and manipulation.

Details:

1. ✈️ Arrival in Venice: Hitler's Uninvited Excursion

The event is set on June 14, 1934, providing historical context crucial to understanding the significance of the trip.
A large silver transport plane is used for the journey, signifying the formal and important nature of the excursion.
The descent over the Adriatic and approach to Venice underscores the geographical and strategic importance of the location.
Landing at the airfield in Venice is a pivotal moment, marking the physical arrival and setting the stage for subsequent historical events.
The depiction of a glorious summer's day and spectacular scenery not only adds dramatic flair but also contrasts with the underlying political tensions.

2. 🤝 Diplomatic Struggles: Hitler and Mussolini's Tense Meeting

Adolf Hitler arrives in a tense mood for a meeting with Italian dictator Benito Mussolini, influenced by his discomfort with flying and Mussolini's derogatory remarks about him as a 'muddle-headed fool'.
Hitler is frustrated by the necessity of seeking favor from Mussolini, as this contradicts his usual authoritative stance.
Germany's international standing is declining following its withdrawal from the League of Nations, turning it into an international pariah despite Hitler's attempts to maintain diplomatic courtesies.
The meeting is significant as it highlights the strained diplomatic relations between Germany and Italy, and the broader implications for international politics during this period.
Mussolini's derogatory remarks and the need for Hitler to seek favor indicate a power imbalance, affecting Germany's strategy moving forward.

3. 🇩🇪 International Concerns: Rising Tensions in Europe

The American Jewish Congress has expressed alarm over the direction of Nazi Germany, highlighting widespread international concern.
France is actively seeking alliances with Eastern European countries, including Poland, Czechoslovakia, and the USSR, to establish an anti-Nazi bloc, reflecting a strategic effort to counteract German influence.
Despite a temporary non-aggression pact with Poland, Germany remains apprehensive about potential encirclement by hostile forces, underlining the precarious nature of these diplomatic maneuvers.
These geopolitical dynamics are reminiscent of previous conditions that led Europe to war, illustrating the serious potential for conflict escalation.

4. 🪖 Internal Conflict: SA's Growing Discontent

Hitler's plans for expansion face significant challenges due to internal conflicts within South Africa and external pressures, including insufficient support from the League of Nations.
Italy's military ambitions in Libya and Albania are hindered by a lack of backing from the League of Nations, complicating Mussolini's strategy and indirectly affecting South Africa's internal politics.
The geopolitical dynamics involve Fascist Italy's intent to counterbalance French power, with Mussolini and Hitler attempting to create a united front. This alliance aims to strengthen their geopolitical positions but also adds to internal tensions within South Africa as global power shifts create instability.
The lack of international support for aggressive expansionist policies contributes to rising discontent within South Africa, as internal factions struggle with external geopolitical pressures and alliances.
Understanding these dynamics is crucial for addressing the internal conflicts and discontent within South Africa, highlighting the need for strategic geopolitical alignment and domestic policy reform to mitigate unrest.

5. 👔 An Awkward Encounter: Hitler and Mussolini in Venice

Adolf Hitler's first international trip at age 45 was marked by logistical errors and presentation misjudgments, indicating his limited international exposure.
The meeting location, Palazo Vendramin Calergi, while chosen for its Wagnerian association, was unsuitable in other respects, reflecting poor planning.
Hitler's choice of attire—a crumpled suit and oversized raincoat—clashed notably with Mussolini's formal military attire, underscoring a lack of diplomatic experience.
Mussolini's 12-year leadership experience was evident as he showcased himself with grandeur and a fully dressed guard of honor, contrasting sharply with Hitler's appearance.
The meeting's political context was crucial as both leaders sought to establish a rapport amid rising tensions in Europe, though the encounter revealed significant differences in their diplomatic approaches and maturity.

6. 🛥️ The Farcical Journey: Missteps Across the Lagoon

Hitler and Mussolini's inspection of troops descends into farce, with Mussolini leading while Hitler appears disheveled and uncomfortable, creating an image of incompetence and lack of coordination.
The journey across the lagoon in a motorboat highlights the absurdity of the event, with Mussolini posturing at the prow while the scene becomes farcical as they pass flags that are actually sailors' underwear.
A marching parade in Piazza San Marco adds to the comedic tone, with Italian troops goose-stepping out of sync and rival regiments bumping into each other, further displaying disorganization and lack of military precision.
Communication between Hitler and Mussolini is ineffective, with neither understanding the other's language, leading to nothing being settled or achieved during the visit.

7. 🔥 Consolidation of Power: Hitler's Rapid Moves

Hitler's rise to power since January 1933 as Chancellor has been marked by swift and ruthless actions, surprising even his most ardent supporters.
The Reichstag fire provided Hitler with a pretext to enforce severe emergency legislation.
Within weeks, political rivals such as Communists, Social Democrats, and liberals were suppressed and imprisoned in work camps.
The press freedom was abolished, trade unions were dismantled, and Jews were prohibited from public life.
Hitler's role as Chancellor now involves wielding executive dictatorial powers.
The Enabling Act passed in March 1933 allowed Hitler to enact laws without Reichstag approval, solidifying his control.
The Night of the Long Knives in June 1934 eliminated SA leaders and further secured Hitler's dominance.

8. 🛡️ SA's Internal Conflicts: Power Struggles Within

In early 1934, the SA boasted approximately 3 million members, including associated groups, highlighting their substantial presence and influence on German streets.
The SA, identified by their brown shirt uniforms, were pivotal enforcers of Nazi rule, acting as the physical force behind Hitler's rise to power.
Members of the SA, aware of their collective might, exuded arrogance and disdain as they marched through towns, advocating for a second revolution to dismantle the remaining aristocratic structures from the Kaiser's era.
Despite their significant power, internal conflicts arose within the SA, stemming from differing visions for the future of Germany and their role within it. These tensions were exacerbated by their push for a more radical transformation, conflicting with the more conservative elements of the Nazi leadership.

9. 🧠 Ideological Clashes: SA's Revolutionary Ambitions

The SA perceives Hitler's pact with the establishment and big business as a betrayal of the National Socialist agenda, emphasizing a return to its original revolutionary roots.
The SA feels that the regime has not progressed far enough, criticizing Hitler's focus on evolution rather than a full-fledged revolution.
There is dissatisfaction among the SA ranks due to a perceived lack of personal rewards for their efforts prior to Hitler's rise to power.
Many leading Stormtroopers are disappointed by not receiving positions in government, highlighting a disconnect between their contributions and recognition.

10. ⚔️ Brewing Rebellion: Hostility Against Nazi Leadership

The SA, largely composed of working-class members, are envious of the SS, who are seen as an elite group due to their middle-class backgrounds and stylish Hugo Boss uniforms.
Tensions arise as the SS are regarded as the 'elite' and most formidable faction within the Nazi regime, overshadowing the SA's contributions.
The SA, emphasizing their larger numbers, regard themselves as the true representation of the Nazi movement, contrasting with the limited German Army, which is restricted to 100,000 personnel by the Treaty of Versailles.
These internal conflicts highlight significant divisions within the Nazi leadership, which could undermine their cohesion and effectiveness.

11. 💥 Rome's Challenge: Tensions with Hitler

Rome's proposal aims to integrate the regular army into the SA, forming a 'People's Army', which is seen as a significant threat by the military establishment, indicating deep internal tensions within Nazi Germany.
The SA is perceived by Rome as the guarantors of the German Revolution, underlining their critical role in maintaining the revolutionary goals and the potential shift in power dynamics.
Hindenberg, a staunch army man, is horrified by the idea of merging the army with the SA, reflecting strong opposition from traditional military leadership against Rome's radical ideas.
Hindenberg's constitutional power to dismiss actions that threaten the military structure presents a potential for significant political conflict, with implications for Hitler's control over the military and the Nazi party's internal stability.

12. ⚖️ Hitler's Decision: The Turning Point Against Rome

By 1934, Hitler had secured the loyalty of the Army's top brass, crucial for his strategic military plans, ensuring their support in pivotal decisions.
Internal conflicts were evident as Hindenberg warned Hitler about Röhm's growing influence, highlighting the tension within the Nazi ranks.
Hitler attempted to manage Röhm by offering a cabinet position and luxurious accommodations, which were rejected, indicating Röhm's resistance to subordination.
In February, Hitler emphasized the importance of professional military operations, excluding Röhm's SA, as vital for the planned conquest of the East, reflecting his focus on efficient military strategies.
Hitler's strategy relied on swift, professional military action, emphasizing modern warfare tactics and technology, aligning with his broader military objectives.
The regular Army's aspiration to restore the monarchy after Hindenberg's tenure added political complexity, influencing Hitler's strategic decisions.
To strengthen his military approach, Hitler aligned with Major General von Blomberg and Lieutenant General Walther von Reichenau, key figures in the Army.
Hitler proposed a border force role for Röhm's SA, perceived by Röhm as an insult, intensifying internal conflicts and illustrating the challenges Hitler faced in consolidating power.

13. 🧾 The Gathering Storm: Plotting and Preparations

Heinrich Himmler and Reinhard Heydrich are compiling a dossier against Rome, indicating a well-planned move to take him down.
Rome is summoned by Hitler for a private five-hour meeting, highlighting the seriousness of the internal conflict and strategic plotting.
Rome agrees to pause SA activities for a month, reflecting internal pressure and temporary compromise amidst escalating tensions.
The session between Hitler and Rome is marked by loud arguments, illustrating deep-rooted disagreements despite their long-term association since 1919.
Rome's agreement to down tools is partly influenced by his chronic fatigue syndrome, highlighting how personal health issues are impacting leadership decisions.

14. 🗡️ Prelude to Purge: The Night of the Long Knives

On June 17th, Papin delivered a speech at the University of Marburg criticizing Joseph Goebbels' control of the press and urging Hitler to distance himself from Ernst Röhm, highlighting internal tensions within the Nazi regime.
Goebbels attempted to suppress Papin's remarks, but the Frankfurter Zeitung published them before the edition was impounded, showcasing the regime's tight media control.
Vice Chancellor Papin offered his resignation to Hitler, who refused it, indicating Papin's strategic importance for the planned purge against Röhm.
Papin was appointed to monitor Hitler and report to President Hindenburg, whose health was failing, adding urgency to the political maneuvers.
Hindenburg was in East Prussia due to illness, and Hitler's visit under the guise of reporting on Mussolini was actually to assess Hindenburg's health, reflecting the fragile political situation.
In Berlin, a report accused Ernst Röhm of plotting a coup with former Chancellor Kurt von Schleicher, despite Röhm being bedridden, illustrating the fabricated nature of the accusations used to justify the purge.
The report claimed Röhm planned a second revolution, which was part of the narrative to eliminate potential threats and consolidate Hitler's power.

15. 🔪 The Purge Begins: Arrests and Executions

15.1. Warnings and Suspensions

15.2. Preparations for Action

15.3. Allegations and Decisions

16. 🏨 Arrests at Bad Wiessee: Hitler's Personal Intervention

Hitler personally intervened by ordering SS commander Sepp Dietrich to descend on Bad Wiessee for action, demonstrating his hands-on approach.
Intelligence suggested that Carl Ernst was poised to lead an assault on Berlin, although he was actually on his honeymoon in Bremen, highlighting potential misinformation or misinterpretation of threats.
At 2 a.m. on Saturday, June 30, Hitler decided to personally lead a counteroffensive, indicating his desire to directly manage threats perceived against his regime.
By 7 a.m., Hitler was actively involved in the roundup of local SA leaders in Munich, showing his commitment to swiftly neutralizing opposition.
The setting at Bad Wiessee, described as a beautiful lakeside, was an unlikely place for a revolution, suggesting possible underestimation of threats by opponents.

17. 🚨 Codeword Hummingbird: The Purge Unfolds

Hitler orchestrated a strategic raid on the SA leadership, arresting key figures including Röhm, an action framed as necessary to combat internal corruption and consolidate Nazi power.
The operation capitalized on the exposure of homosexual relationships within the SA, using this to delegitimize and weaken the organization publicly, which was a tactical move to reduce their influence.
This purge was leveraged as a propaganda tool to bolster Hitler's image as a leader who was decisive against corruption, presenting him as unaware of internal wrongdoings until he took action.
Efficient coordination was evident as buses and trucks were utilized to swiftly detain and transport SA members, demonstrating a well-planned and executed operation targeting the SA's structure.
The aftermath of the purge significantly weakened the SA, diminishing its power and elevating the SS, thereby redefining the power dynamics within Nazi Germany.

18. 🔫 Widespread Executions: Brutality of the Night of the Long Knives

In Berlin, the SS executed individuals connected to the SA authority using machine guns, indicating a systematic and ruthless purge.
Vice-Chancellor Papen's press secretary, Herbert von Bosa, was executed by being shot ten times in the back, highlighting the targeting of political figures during the purge.
Edgar Jung, the writer of Papen's Marburg speech, was found dead in a ditch, showing reprisals against those who voiced opposition.
Despite Vice-Chancellor Papen's attempts to intercede with President Hindenburg, the executions continued unabated, suggesting a breakdown in political checks against the SS actions.
High-profile figures such as General Kurt von Schleicher, a former Chancellor, were assassinated at their homes, illustrating the widespread and targeted nature of the executions.
The police president of Breslau was gunned down in his home, further underscoring the extensive reach of the purge.
Gregor Strasser, a prominent Nazi figure opposed to Hitler, was executed in a brutal manner at the Gestapo headquarters.
K. L. Ernst, a newlywed, was tricked and subsequently executed, reflecting the deceptive and indiscriminate tactics used during the purge.

19. 👥 Fallout and Consequences: Hitler Tightens His Grip

Hitler's purges extended to former adversaries like Gustaf von Kahr, who was assassinated for opposing him in 1923, highlighting a zero-tolerance policy for past defiance.
Journalist Fritz Gerlich and Father Bernhard Stempfle were killed, demonstrating Hitler's ruthless strategy to silence investigative threats and dissent within his inner circle.
The purges were justified under the guise of protecting Germany's moral fabric but served as a strategic move to eliminate political enemies and consolidate power.
High-ranking military figures such as Kurt von Schleicher and Major General von Bredow were also targeted, indicating a shift from focusing solely on SA leaders to potential threats in traditional military ranks.
These actions fueled anti-Hitler sentiment within the Army, illustrating the inherent risks and instability of consolidating power through violence and fear.
The German public and international community reacted with alarm, recognizing the purges as a significant turning point in Hitler's dictatorship and a forewarning of further authoritarian measures.

20. 🔍 Aftermath of Rome's Death: Targeted Killings

Dapo mistakenly kills Dr. Vly Schmidt, a music critic, confusing him with Wilhelm Schmidt, an SA Commander, highlighting the chaos and confusion during the purge.
Hermann Göring holds a press conference announcing the suppression of a coup against the Nazi government, listing casualties, which included General von Scher, illustrating the regime's effort to control the narrative and justify the violence.
Confusion and shock ensue as Göring confirms the killing of General von Scher after re-entering to clarify his earlier statement, reflecting the disarray within the Nazi leadership.
Hitler's initial order for the execution of SA officers in Stadheim prison at 11:30 a.m. is reversed but later reinstated by 5:00 p.m., demonstrating the fluctuating decisions and power struggles within the regime.
SS Commander Dietrich Pit is instructed to execute marked SA leaders in Stadheim prison, effectively eliminating remnants of SA leadership and consolidating Hitler's control, showcasing the brutal measures taken to solidify power.

21. 🎭 Hitler's Deceptive Calm: Public Facade Maintained

Hitler used the Reichstag fire and the false communist uprising as a pretext to consolidate power.
Between June 30 and July 1, 1934, more than 200 people were killed without trial, with some estimates suggesting up to 1,000 were murdered.
This event came to be known as the Night of the Long Knives, a significant purge of Hitler's political rivals.
Despite the widespread executions, Hitler hesitated to execute Ernst Röhm, a close associate, showing a rare moment of indecision.
On July 1st, 1934, Hitler maintained a public facade by hosting a tea party for his staff's families, projecting normalcy amidst the chaos.

22. 🔚 End of an Era: Rome's Execution and Its Impact

On the evening of Rome's execution, SS Brigadeführer Theodor AA, accompanied by two subordinates, arrives at Munich Stadheim Prison at 6:00 p.m. to carry out the orders.
Rome is found lying on his bed, shirtless and sweating due to the heat, indicating his state of discomfort and tension.
The SS officers present Rome with a newspaper detailing the suppression of the coup, signifying the failure of his efforts and the justification for his execution.
He is informed that he has forfeited his life and is handed a loaded Browning pistol with one round, symbolizing a chance for a dignified end.
After 15 minutes without hearing a gunshot, they re-enter the room, and Rome, refusing to comply, challenges them by saying, 'Adolf do it himself,' highlighting his defiance even in the face of death.
Ultimately, the SS officers take matters into their own hands and shoot Rome, marking the end of his influence and the solidification of power by Adolf's regime.
The execution is significant as it represents the brutal measures taken to consolidate power and eliminate opposition within the ranks.
Rome's death marks a pivotal moment in history, showcasing the lengths to which the regime would go to maintain control and the impact on internal political dynamics.

23. 🔄 Restructuring: SA's Decline and Hitler's Consolidation

Hitler isolated himself from the SA, causing internal doubts and anger, particularly after Röhm's death.
Portraying the restructuring as a response to an alleged coup, Hitler reduced the SA's size by half and limited its role to sports and training.
Despite international condemnation, the Night of the Long Knives was met with mixed reactions in Germany, seen as restoring public order.
General Blomberg and President Hindenburg viewed the actions favorably, considering them necessary to prevent a coup.
The SA, once a powerful force in the Nazi regime, saw its influence drastically diminished under new leadership by Viktor Lutze.

24. 🗣️ Justifying Actions: Hitler's Reichstag Speech

Financial compensation was offered to families of victims, but not all accepted, indicating dissent against the regime's actions, suggesting strained public relations.
SS officers involved in the killings were rewarded, highlighting an institutional endorsement of violence and showing the regime's prioritization of loyalty over morality.
Military officers were prohibited from attending certain funerals, which underscores the regime's control over military engagement with political events and intention to separate the military from political dissent.
Hitler personally intervened in certain arrests and killings, demonstrating a consolidation of power and his personal control over matters of life and death, reflecting authoritarian governance.
On July 13th, Hitler delivered a speech to the Reichstag where he claimed to have saved the Fatherland, framing his actions as protective and justified, a strategy to legitimize his authority and suppress opposition.

25. 🌍 Expansionist Ideals: Ambitions Beyond Germany

Hitler's ambition to unite German-speaking peoples into a single realm is explicitly stated in Mein Kampf.
Millions of ethnic Germans live outside Germany, notably in the Polish Corridor and Sudetenland of Czechoslovakia.
Austria, reconstituted as a Germanic republic after WWI, has significant support for unification with Germany.
Austrian National Socialists, more radical than German Nazis, have engaged in terrorist activities to push for Anschluss.
On July 25, 1934, Austrian Nazis attempted a coup, resulting in the assassination of Chancellor Engelbert Dollfuss.

26. 🇮🇹 Mussolini's Reaction: Fallout from Austrian Coup Attempt

Mussolini initially feels overjoyed by the Austrian coup attempt, interpreting it as a German uprising against their oppressors.
The Austrian Chancellor's family, being guests at Mussolini's villa during the coup, adds a personal dimension to the political turmoil.
Upon learning of the coup's failure and Hitler's involvement, Mussolini becomes furious, prompting Germany to initiate diplomatic efforts to mitigate his anger.
Germany sends an emissary to mollify Mussolini, but he remains unimpressed and dismisses their attempts as insufficient.
Mussolini condemns Hitler, accusing him of the Austrian Chancellor's murder and labeling him a threat to European civilization.
He describes Hitler as a 'murderer' and a 'sexual degenerate,' underscoring deep animosity and moral condemnation.
In a significant military response, Mussolini mobilizes four Army divisions, signaling a readiness to confront potential threats.

27. ⚖️ Presidential Transition: From Hindenburg to Hitler

President Hindenburg, aged 87, signed Germany over to Hitler, marking a significant political transition.
Hitler proposed combining the presidency and chancellorship, a move approved unanimously by the cabinet, indicating a strategic consolidation of power.
The proposal received overwhelming public approval through a referendum, passing with 90% of the vote, demonstrating broad public support or manipulation.
On August 2, Hindenburg passed away, paving the way for Hitler to assume complete control as both Führer and Chancellor, solidifying his dictatorial authority.

28. 📝 Oath of Allegiance: Military's Pledge to Hitler

Hitler merges the offices of Chancellor and President, assuming total control as the supreme commander of Germany's Armed Forces.
The military oath of allegiance is altered to pledge personal loyalty to Adolf Hitler, not to the country, constitution, or any official title.
This change in the oath was originally suggested by the military themselves, aiming to control Hitler, but ultimately giving him more power.
On the day of President Hindenburg's death, a massive army ceremony was held where soldiers swore unconditional obedience to Hitler, reinforcing his absolute authority.

29. ⚰️ Hindenburg's Funeral: A State Farewell

Hitler organized a grand funeral for Hindenburg, comparable to those of Kaisers, reflecting the importance of military tradition and state propaganda.
The funeral procession began at the Croll Opera House, with SS men lining the path, showcasing the regime's emphasis on grandeur and military presence.
Hindenburg's burial took place at Tannenberg, a site of his greatest military victory, aligning his legacy with national pride and military success.
The monument at the burial site featured 70-ton towers, emphasizing the scale and symbolic power of the site.
Hindenburg's last will was handed to Hitler, indicating the personal and political connections between them.

30. 🇩🇪 The Third Reich: Hitler's Regime Solidifies

Under Adolf Hitler, Germany became a totalitarian state, marked by its absolute control and brutal governance.
The regime declared its ambition to last a thousand years, symbolizing its intended permanence and dominance.
Hitler's consolidation of power involved significant events such as the Reichstag Fire Decree and the Enabling Act, which dismantled democratic structures.
The regime's impact was catastrophic, leading to the devastation of World War II, the Holocaust, and the deaths of tens of millions.
The Third Reich succeeded the first German Reich (Holy Roman Empire) and the second Reich (Kaisers), anchoring its identity in a historical narrative.

31. 🔜 Future Stories: Transition to New Narratives

The current segment concludes the story of Hitler's rise to power, setting the stage for future discussions on the Third Reich and World War II.
The upcoming focus will be on a new narrative, specifically the story of Genghis Khan in the Mongol lands during the late 12th and early 13th centuries.
The narrative will explore how Genghis Khan, born in 1162 into a mid-ranking Mongol clan, rose to unite the Mongol tribes and rule an empire twice the size of ancient Rome.
The exploration will highlight Genghis Khan's military prowess and reputation for cruelty, providing insights into his leadership and expansion strategies.

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