Sturmabteilung facts for kids
SA insignia
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 Adolf Hitler and Ernst Röhm inspecting the SA in Nuremberg in 1933 |
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| Agency overview | |
|---|---|
| Formed | 1920 |
| Dissolved | May 8, 1945 |
| Superseding agency |
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| Type | Paramilitary |
| Jurisdiction | |
| Headquarters | SA High Command, Barerstraße, Munich 48°8′37.53″N 11°34′6.76″E / 48.1437583°N 11.5685444°E |
| Minister responsible |
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| Parent agency | Nazi Party (NSDAP) |
| Child agency |
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The Sturmabteilung (often shortened to SA) was a large group that acted like a private army for the Nazi Party in Germany. Its main leader was Ernst Röhm. This group was very important in helping Adolf Hitler become powerful in the 1930s.
In English, the SA was often called the Stormtroopers or the Brownshirts. This was because they wore brown uniforms. The name Sturmabteilung means "assault detachment" or "storm section." Their brown uniforms were similar to the black uniforms worn by Benito Mussolini's Blackshirts in Italy.
The idea of "Sturmabteilung" came from special attack troops used by Germany in World War I. These troops used quick attack methods to break through enemy lines.
Contents
What Was the SA?
The SA was formed in 1920. It was the first group that acted like a military for the Nazi Party. Its members were mostly former soldiers and young men. They helped the Nazi Party grow by protecting their meetings. They also caused trouble for political opponents.
Why Were They Called Brownshirts?
The SA members wore distinctive brown uniforms. This earned them the nickname "Brownshirts." Their uniforms helped them stand out and look like a strong, organized force. The color brown became a symbol of the SA.
How the SA Helped Hitler Gain Power
The SA played a big role in Hitler's rise. They marched in parades and rallies, showing the Nazi Party's strength. They also intimidated people who disagreed with the Nazis. This made it easier for Hitler to take control of Germany.
The End of the SA's Power
By 1934, the SA had become very large and powerful. Its leader, Ernst Röhm, wanted the SA to become the main army of Germany. However, Hitler saw the SA as a threat to his own power. He decided to get rid of the SA's leadership.
During a violent event in 1934, Hitler ordered the Schutzstaffel (SS) to arrest and kill many SA leaders. This event is known as the Night of the Long Knives. After this, the SA lost most of its power. The SS became the main security force for the Nazi Party.
Related pages
Images for kids
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The SA unit in Nuremberg, 1929
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Marketing for the SA's Sturm Cigarette Company also promoted military service.
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The SA unit in Berlin in 1932
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Ernst Röhm, SA Chief of Staff, 1931–1934
See also
In Spanish: Sturmabteilung para niños
