Hitler meets with Hindenburg

Against the background of the phenomenal electoral victory by the NSDAP in the Reichstag elections of 31 July 1932 (37.3 per cent of votes and from now on strongest faction in the Reichstag) discussions are initiated on 13 August between Reich President Paul von Hindenburg, Adolf Hitler (NSDAP) and Reich Chancellor Franz von Papen.

© J. C. Kaelin Hindenburg and Hitler during a drive in an open car - the Reich President being still cautious regarding the ambitious lance corporal who wants to become Reich chancellor

Hitler uncompromisingly demands to be appointed Reich Chancellor and does not shy away from threatening further acts of terror. However, von Hindenburg does not intend to do any more than appoint Hitler as vice-Chancellor. He fears that with the „Führer“ of the Nazis as head of government he will not be able to continue his „residential dictatorship,“ which he sees as the only chance to save Germany from political disintegration.