Hitler can't walk over me as he might have done a year ago; I've seen to that. Don't forget that I have three million men, with every key position in the hands of my own people, Hitler knows that I have friends in the Reichswehr, you know! If Hitler is reasonable I shall settle the matter quietly; if he isn't I must be prepared to use force - not for my sake but for the sake of our revolution.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- He warns Hitler he cannot be easily overrun, citing his own forces and allies, and says he will use force if necessary for the revolution.
- In plain terms
- He tells Hitler he has power and will fight if needed.
- What can you take from it?
- Power bases and alliances shape political confrontations.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How does perceived strength affect negotiations?
- When is force justified in political struggle?
Another view
The claim of three million men is likely hyperbole.
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