Adolf Hitler
Adolf Hitler (German: [ˈadɔlf ˈhɪtlɐ] (About this soundlisten); 20 April 1889 – 30 April 1945) was an Austrian-born German politician who was the dictator of Germany from 1933 until his death in 1945. He rose to power as the leader of the Nazi Party,[a] becoming the chancellor in 1933 and then assuming the title of Führer und Reichskanzler in 1934.[b] During his dictatorship, he initiated World War II in Europe by invading Poland on 1 September 1939. He was closely involved in military operations throughout the war and was central to the perpetration of the Holocaust, the genocide of about six million Jews and millions of other victims. Adolf Hitler Portrait of Adolf Hitler, 1938. Official portrait, 1938 Führer of Germany In office 2 August 1934 – 30 April 1945 Preceded by Paul von Hindenburg (President) Succeeded by Karl Dönitz (President) Chancellor of Germany In office 30 January 1933 – 30 April 1945 President Paul von Hindenburg (1933–1934) Vice Chancellor Franz von Papen (1933–193...