How did Hitler first demand to become Chancellor in May 1932?

Hitler's demand to become Chancellor in May 1932 was primarily focused on persuading President Paul von Hindenburg to appoint him directly to the position. At that time, despite the growing popularity of the Nazi Party, Hitler believed that securing the chancellorship through appointment by Hindenburg was a strategic move that would legitimize his rise to power.

In the political landscape of Weimar Germany, direct appointment by the president was a common practice, especially when parliamentary systems were unstable. Hitler's appeal to Hindenburg was accompanied by pressure from political allies who believed that legitimizing Nazi leadership could restore order in the government. This approach also reflected the political maneuvering of the time, where aiming for official recognition and power through established political channels was crucial for gaining authority.

While there may have been public support for the Nazi Party, it was not the decisive factor in this instance. Hitler's approach was more about political strategy and direct negotiations rather than overwhelming public mandate or manipulation of elections. His effort to debate Hindenburg was also not a prominent method used in this context, reinforcing that the direct appeal to Hindenburg was his primary strategy to secure the chancellor role.