The Enabling Act, passed on 3rd March 1933, was a significant event in the history of Germany. It granted Adolf Hitler supreme power, allowing him to sideline the Parliament and rule by decrees. This marked a major turning point in the establishment of Nazi Germany and the consolidation of Hitler's dictatorship.

Key points:

1. Context: Before the Enabling Act was passed, Germany was facing significant economic and political challenges. The Nazi Party, led by Hitler, had emerged as a powerful force, but it did not have an absolute majority in the Reichstag (the German Parliament).

2. Purpose of the Enabling Act: The Enabling Act was proposed by the Nazi Party to address the political impasse and consolidate power in the hands of Hitler. It aimed to provide the government with the authority to make laws without the approval of the Reichstag.

3. Passage of the Enabling Act: The Act was passed with the support of the Nazi Party and its coalition partner, the German National People's Party (DNVP). The Communist Party was banned, and many of its members were absent from the session due to arrests and intimidation. The Act required a two-thirds majority to pass, which was achieved through the absence and intimidation of opposition members.

4. Implications of the Enabling Act: The Act effectively allowed Hitler to suspend civil liberties, suppress opposition, and rule by decree. It gave him the power to pass laws without consulting the Reichstag or obtaining their approval. This marked a significant blow to democracy and established Hitler as the supreme leader of Germany.

5. Aftermath: Following the passage of the Enabling Act, Hitler used his newly acquired powers to consolidate his control over all aspects of German society. Political parties were banned, trade unions were dissolved, and opposition to the Nazi regime was suppressed. Hitler's dictatorship was further solidified through the passage of subsequent laws that centralized power in his hands.

In conclusion, the Enabling Act passed on 3rd March 1933 was significant because it gave Hitler supreme power, allowing him to sideline the Parliament and rule by decrees. This marked a major step towards the establishment of Nazi Germany and the consolidation of Hitler's dictatorship.