November 1932 German federal election — federal legislative elections in the Weimar Republic in 1932
The last free and fair German federal election before the Nazi seizure of power, marking a turning point in Weimar Republic democracy.
Key Facts
- Election date
- 6 November 1932
- Nazi vote share change
- Fell by four percentage points from July 1932
- Nazi seats lost
- 34 seats
- Parties gaining slightly
- Communist Party and German National People's Party
- Coalition outcome
- Nazis again failed to form a coalition government
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
Following the inconclusive July 1932 Reichstag election, Germany held a second federal election within months as the Nazi Party and other factions remained unable to form a stable governing coalition, reflecting the severe political fragmentation and instability of the late Weimar Republic.
On 6 November 1932, German voters went to the polls in a federal legislative election. The Nazi Party lost 34 seats and saw its vote share drop by four percentage points compared to July 1932, while the Communist Party and the German National People's Party recorded slight gains. The Nazis once again failed to secure a coalition majority in the Reichstag.
The election results were a significant setback for the Nazis, suggesting their popular support may have peaked. However, these proved to be the last genuinely free and fair elections in Germany before Adolf Hitler was appointed Chancellor in January 1933 and the Nazis consolidated power, ending democratic governance in the Weimar Republic.
Political Outcome
Nazi Party lost 34 seats and failed to form a coalition; Communist Party and German National People's Party made slight gains; no stable government formed.
Nazi Party held largest Reichstag share after July 1932 election
Nazi vote share reduced; continued governmental deadlock in the Weimar Republic