The Role of Army Opposition in Resisting Nazi Rule

The significance of army opposition in resisting Nazi rule is a topic of debate among historians. In assessing the importance of army opposition, it is essential to consider both the positive and negative impacts it had on the Nazi regime.

One significant factor demonstrating the army's opposition to Nazi rule was the fear of the SA, a paramilitary organization that sought to become the official German army under Ernst Rohm. The German army, led by senior officers, was apprehensive of the SA's growing power and influence. This fear prompted the army to take action, such as encouraging President Hindenburg to threaten martial law in 1934. This demonstrates the army's willingness to resist the Nazi regime, albeit indirectly through political maneuvering.

Moreover, the German army recognized Hitler's need for their support in future military expansion plans. This realization led Hitler to launch the Night of the Long Knives in 1934, during which he purged the SA leadership, including Rohm. The army's resistance to the SA and the subsequent elimination of this internal threat to their authority can be seen as a significant form of opposition to Nazi rule.

Furthermore, the army's loyalty was cemented through the introduction of the 'Oath of Loyalty' in 1934, which reinforced their commitment to Hitler and the Nazi regime. However, this loyalty began to waver over time, as evidenced by the 1944 July Bomb Plot. This failed assassination attempt on Hitler grew out of increased army opposition to Hitler's conduct of the war and his leadership.

On the other hand, there are arguments against the significance of army opposition in resisting Nazi rule. While the army initially had concerns about the SA and asserted their authority in certain instances, they were ultimately pacified in 1934 following Hindenburg's death. The army's compliance with taking the oath of loyalty to Hitler after Hindenburg's passing underscores their willingness to align themselves with the Nazi regime.

Moreover, some historians argue that other forms of opposition were more significant in challenging Nazi rule. Youth resistance movements, such as the Edelweiss Pirates and the Swing Movement, as well as intellectual resistance groups like the White Rose, were instrumental in defying Nazi ideology and authority. Additionally, the opposition from religious institutions, particularly the Catholic and Protestant churches, played a crucial role in resisting Nazi policies.

Overall, while army opposition did present a challenge to Nazi rule at certain points in history, its significance may be overshadowed by other forms of resistance that emerged within German society. The complexities of the relationship between the German army and the Nazi regime highlight the multifaceted nature of opposition to totalitarian rule.