Weimar and Nazi Germany (1918-1939): Hitler's Early Life

Hitler was born in 1889 in Braunau, Austria (note - not Germany, although Austria is German-speaking).

Hitler had a fairly normal childhood. His father was a customs officer and his mother died when he was 18 leaving Hitler distraught (he was very close to her).

Academically, Hitler did not achieve well at school and, despite his love of art, he failed to get into the Vienna Art Academy. After leaving school Hitler spent time doing manual work and living on the streets.

Just before the First World War, Hitler moved to the German city of Munich. When war was declared, Hitler joined the German Army and was awarded the Iron Cross for his bravery.

Towards the end of the war Hitler was injured by a mustard gas attack leaving him hospitalised, which is where he was when he learned of Germany’s surrender.

Hitler took the news badly and blamed those in command for Germany's defeat. He vowed to enter politics to right the wrongs of the defeat and the avenge the Treaty of Versailles.