Why Did Hitler Move to Munich Instead of Germany?

Adolf Hitler’s address was officially Prinzregentenplatz 16 in Munich, a city where he found a sense of belonging and an ideal platform for his ideologies. Unlike his former residence in Vienna, Munich was entirely German, a city where he could immerse himself in the culture and ideology he deeply cherished. It is important to note that all papers and documents related to Hitler, including his death certificate and testament, fall under the jurisdiction of Bavaria. This means that the Bavarian State Archives in Munich hold his personal papers and not the Federal Archives in Koblenz.

Insight into Hitler’s Decision to Move

Some speculated that Hitler might have moved to Munich to see the culmination of his life’s work, especially given his mantra of “victory or death.” Another theory posits that he ordered the destruction of the remaining infrastructure, perhaps to erase physical reminders of his past or to prepare for his vision of a new Germany.

Motivations Behind Munich

Hitler harbored a deep-seated hatred for the multi-ethnic nature of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. He firmly believed that the German people’s rights alone were sufficient and that other ethnic groups, including the Jews and the Czechs, should not exist. His time in Vienna, which was heavily multicultural and cosmopolitan, intensified his prejudice against these groups. He witnessed the Jewish community’s prosperity while he struggled to make ends meet, leading to a profound resentment.

Munich was a stark contrast to this environment. Hitler felt a sense of belonging in a city where everyone was German. There were no Croatian or Slovenian societies or Czech unions, and everyone he spoke to was German. This stark difference was a huge attraction for Hitler, who was deeply invested in German nationalism. He also enlisted in the German army, wishing to fight for the German people rather than the ephemeral Habsburg state, which he perceived as a multi-ethnic monstrosity.

The Personal Struggles

Like many teenagers, Hitler often defied his father’s wishes due to his poverty and rebellious nature. His father, an Austrian at heart, held pro-republican views, which contrasted sharply with Hitler’s desire for an absolute monarch. Additionally, when his oldest brother left home, Hitler was left to take on his responsibilities, leading to frequent beatings from his father.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hitler’s move to Munich was a strategic choice that aligned with his nationalist ideologies and offered him a platform to express and advance his beliefs. The Bavarian State Archives in Munich hold a wealth of information about his life and career, further highlighting the significant historical events centered around this city.