Hitler rose to power in Germany after World War 1 by promising to restore Germany's economy and national pride. The Treaty of Versailles had imposed harsh terms on Germany after its defeat that led to economic crisis, hyperinflation, and widespread unemployment. Hitler blamed Jews and communists for Germany's problems and gained popularity by vowing to make Germany a powerful nation again. He became Chancellor in 1933 and quickly consolidated power, establishing a fascist dictatorship and pursuing aggressive rearmament in violation of the Treaty of Versailles.