Night of the Long Knives
What Night of the Long Knives means in History A-Level, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definitions of Night of the Long Knives
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Night of the Long Knives in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: Pearson Edexcel
The June–July 1934 removal of the SA leadership and other rivals, securing Hitler's position and the army's support.
In June 1934 the SA's ambitions alarmed generals, so Röhm and other SA leaders were removed, buying army loyalty.
Topics that use Night of the Long Knives
- Paper 3, Option 37.2: Germany, 1871–1990: united, divided and reunited - 3 A new Reich, 1933–35 (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
Related terms
- Charismatic authority and personal rule
- Dual state and party structures
- Gleichschaltung
- Racial exclusion and persecution
- Volksgemeinschaft
- DAF
- Führer
Using Night of the Long Knives in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise History questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge