The SA (Sturmabteilung)

When Hitler became leader of the Nazi Party in 1921, he set up the Sturmabteilung (or SA) to strengthen his control.

Munich had many soldiers who had been demobilised after the First World War who then struggled to find jobs. The SA was the answer for many and it recruited heavily from those former soldiers.

The SA had a brown uniform and hence became known as the ‘Brownshirts’.

The SA were instrumental in the control of the Nazi party.

They paraded around the streets with flags and songs showcasing the power and control of the Nazis.

They protected meetings of the Nazis from other extremist parties and fought opposition to Hitler.

When not marching or protecting, the Nazis sent the SA to break up meetings of communists and other opposition.

The SA allowed the Nazi Party to demonstrate organisational ability and control.