Short Answer
The rise of Nazi anti-Semitism began with Hitler’s regime, transitioning into state-sanctioned policies that fueled public hostility towards Jews. Key events included the implementation of the Nuremberg Laws in 1935, which restricted Jewish rights, and the violent Kristallnacht in 1938, marking a severe escalation in state-endorsed anti-Semitic violence.
Step 1: Rise of Nazi Anti-Semitism
After Adolf Hitler gained power in 1933, anti-Semitism transformed from a hidden prejudice into a state-sanctioned policy. This shift meant that the Nazi regime actively encouraged hostility towards the Jewish population, marking a dangerous turning point in German society.
Step 2: Nuremberg Laws and Public Support
In 1935, the Nuremberg Laws were established, leading to severe restrictions for Jews, including loss of citizenship and prohibitions on marriage to non-Jews. The Nazi government also implemented propaganda to incite public anti-Semitic sentiment, encouraging acts such as boycotting Jewish businesses and socially isolating them.
Step 3: Escalation of Violence
The situation escalated drastically with events like Kristallnacht in November 1938, where coordinated attacks led to violence against Jews, vandalism, and mass arrests. This event marked a significant increase in hostility, showing that anti-Semitic violence was not only tolerated but also endorsed by the state.