The Weimar constitution, crafted by prominent German legal experts in 1919, was based on the principles of the rule of law, known as Rechtsstaat. This framework was widely viewed as a safeguard against governmental overreach and abuse of power. However, the stability and effectiveness of this system proved highly vulnerable.

In 1933, Adolf Hitler's rise to power exposed the weaknesses of both the constitution and the concept of the Rechtsstaat, leading to their rapid downfall. This alarming historical example illustrates how even well-designed democratic institutions can succumb to authoritarianism if not adequately protected and maintained.