Night of the Long Knives ends

Historical Significance and Background

The Night of the Long Knives, which took place in 1934, was a major purge operation carried out by the Nazi regime to execute political opponents. This event marked a critical turning point in Adolf Hitler's consolidation of power in Germany.

Development of the Event

Commencement of the Event

Ending officially on July 5, 1934, the Night of the Long Knives involved a series of murders orchestrated by Hitler to eliminate his political rivals.

Purge Operation

Nazi leaders, including SS leader Heinrich Himmler and Gestapo chief Hermann Göring, targeted SA leader Ernst Röhm and other high-ranking SA members.

Political Assassinations

Nazi leaders conducted raids on the homes of Röhm and others, arresting and immediately executing many of them. A total of 85 to 200 individuals were killed during this operation.

Consequences and Effects

The short-term effects of the Night of the Long Knives included Hitler consolidating his authority and quelling opposition. This operation increased the power within the Nazi Party and elevated Hitler to an absolute leadership position in Germany.

Historical Significance and Reflections to Present Day

The Night of the Long Knives has gone down in history as an event highlighting the brutality and totalitarian nature of the Nazi dictatorship. Today, lessons are drawn from this operation regarding the threats it posed to human rights and democracy.