As the Nazis faced setbacks in national elections, they paradoxically gained more votes. The aging president, Paul von Hindenburg, appointed Franz von Papen as chancellor, who attempted to maintain control through military power. This decision was contentious, reflecting the troubling political climate of the time.
During a visit from Philipp Frank in Caputh, Einstein expressed his concerns about the rise of the Nazis, predicting that a military government would not be effective in stopping the impending revolution led by the National Socialists. His insights highlighted the deepening crisis and his fear for the future of Germany under such authoritarian rule.