Schutzstaffel vs. Sturmabteilung

Attribute	Schutzstaffel	Sturmabteilung
Founded	1925	1920
Leader	Heinrich Himmler	Ernst Röhm
Purpose	Originally formed as Hitler's personal bodyguards, later became responsible for many of the crimes against humanity during WWII	Originally formed as the paramilitary wing of the Nazi Party, played a key role in the rise of Hitler to power
Uniform	Black uniform with SS insignia	Brown uniform with SA insignia

Origins

The Schutzstaffel (SS) and Sturmabteilung (SA) were both paramilitary organizations in Nazi Germany, but they had different origins. The SA was established in 1920 as a way to protect Nazi party meetings and disrupt those of opposing political parties. It was also used to intimidate political opponents through street violence. On the other hand, the SS was formed in 1925 as a small personal bodyguard unit for Adolf Hitler. Over time, the SS grew in power and influence, eventually becoming one of the most powerful organizations in Nazi Germany.

Leadership

One of the key differences between the SS and SA was their leadership structure. The SA was led by Ernst Röhm, a close ally of Hitler who played a significant role in the early days of the Nazi party. Röhm was known for his radical views and his desire to turn the SA into the main military force in Germany. In contrast, the SS was led by Heinrich Himmler, who was known for his loyalty to Hitler and his ruthless efficiency. Himmler transformed the SS into a powerful and feared organization that played a key role in the Holocaust.

Roles and Responsibilities

While both the SS and SA were paramilitary organizations, they had different roles and responsibilities. The SA was primarily responsible for maintaining order at Nazi party events, as well as engaging in street battles with political opponents. It was also involved in the organization of mass rallies and parades. On the other hand, the SS had a more diverse set of responsibilities. It was responsible for internal security, intelligence gathering, and running concentration camps. The SS also had its own military units that fought on the front lines during World War II.

Uniforms and Insignia

Another key difference between the SS and SA was their uniforms and insignia. The SA wore brown shirts as their uniform, which became a symbol of the organization. They also had their own distinctive insignia, including a swastika armband and a badge with the letters "SA." In contrast, the SS wore black uniforms with a skull and crossbones insignia on their caps. The SS also had a complex system of rank insignia that denoted the wearer's position within the organization.

Relationship with Hitler

Both the SS and SA had close relationships with Adolf Hitler, but in different ways. The SA was seen as a more radical and revolutionary organization, with Röhm pushing for a "second revolution" that would see the SA take over the German military. However, Hitler saw the SA as a threat to his own power and in 1934, he ordered the Night of the Long Knives, during which Röhm and other SA leaders were executed. On the other hand, Hitler had a much closer and more trusting relationship with Himmler and the SS. Himmler was known for his unwavering loyalty to Hitler and his willingness to carry out even the most brutal orders.

Legacy

After World War II, both the SS and SA were declared criminal organizations by the International Military Tribunal at Nuremberg. Members of both organizations were prosecuted for war crimes and crimes against humanity. The SS, in particular, was responsible for some of the most heinous atrocities of the Holocaust. The legacy of both organizations continues to be a dark stain on the history of Nazi Germany, serving as a reminder of the dangers of unchecked power and blind loyalty to a dictator.