The SA

What was the SA?

The SA, or Sturmabteilung, which translates as 'storm detachment', was the Nazi Party's first paramilitary wing.

When was the SA set up?

The SA was set up in 1921.

Who joined the SA?

Different groups of people joined the SA:

• ❖ Ex-soldiers, especially members of the Freikorps, as they felt betrayed by the Weimar Republic signing the Treaty of Versailles.
• ❖ Unemployed men, angry with the government.

How did the SA help the Nazis?

The SA was often violent and disorderly. They regularly disrupted the meetings of other political parties, especially the Communist Party, and beat up the opposition. This helped the Nazis become stronger.

Who was the leader of the SA?

The SA was co-founded and led by Ernst Röhm, a German Army officer. He was a member of the German Workers' Party, and he became a close friend of Hitler.

What was the SA's nickname?

The SA was nicknamed 'die Braunhemden' - or 'Brownshirts' - because of the colour of their uniforms.

How many people were in the SA?

By 1932 the SA had 400,000 members, which quickly surged to 2 million after Hitler became chancellor of Germany.