The Great Depression caused widespread unemployment in Germany which led to political instability. As the economy declined, support for Hitler and the Nazis increased as they promised a strong government and blamed the Treaty of Versailles for Germany's problems. By 1932, the Nazis had become the largest party in the Reichstag. As the government changed leadership frequently, President Hindenburg granted Hitler the role of Chancellor in 1933, hoping to control him, but Hitler quickly consolidated power and established himself as the absolute ruler of Germany.