The Prussian Coup d'état of 1932

Name: The Prussian Coup d'état of 1932
Start: 1879-07-20
Location: Unspecified

Background to the Prussian Coup d'état

The Prussian Coup d'état, orchestrated by Franz von Papen, marked a pivotal moment in German politics in 1932. Following World War I, Germany faced severe political unrest and economic hardship, culminating in a volatile political landscape. The Weimar Republic, established after the war, struggled to maintain stability amidst severe economic challenges, hyperinflation, and the rising influence of extremist parties.

Franz von Papen: The Key Player

Franz von Papen, a highly influential politician and member of the Centre Party, sought to regain power and control over the chaotic political environment in Prussia. As a former Chancellor, von Papen held significant ambitions, aiming to implement a more authoritarian style of governance. His frustrations with the Prussian government, where Social Democrats held considerable sway, led him to consider drastic measures to consolidate his power.

The Political Context of the Coup

The political atmosphere in Prussia was marked by tensions between the ruling Social Democrats and various right-wing factions, including von Papen's Centre Party and the burgeoning Nazi Party. With the government in Prussia increasingly paralysed by political infighting and inability to address social issues, von Papen exploited these weaknesses, claiming that he had the authority to restore order and stability.

The Execution of the Coup

On July 20, 1932, von Papen launched the coup against the Prussian government. Using his position as Chancellor, he obtained the necessary approval from President Paul von Hindenburg to dismiss the Prussian government and replace it with a conservative administration. This event was termed the "Prussian Coup" and represented the first significant intervention by the federal government against a state government in the Weimar Republic.

Immediate Consequences of the Coup

Following the coup, von Papen appointed a new government in Prussia led by General Wilhelm von Leers. This move effectively ended years of Social Democratic control over the province, leading to an authoritarian approach that further marginalized opposition parties and civil liberties.

Long-Term Implications

The Prussian Coup set a dangerous precedent for the future of democracy in Germany. It not only weakened the last remnants of democratic governance in Prussia but also emboldened the Nazi Party, who viewed von Papen's actions as a validation of their own authoritarian beliefs. The coup highlighted the fragility of the Weimar Republic and paved the way for the eventual rise of Adolf Hitler.

Fun Fact

The Unique Aspect of the Prussian Coup

Unlike traditional coups that involve armed military takeover, the Prussian Coup was unique as it was executed through legal governmental procedures and political maneuvering, demonstrating the profound challenges of the Weimar political system.