On this day in 1933, Germany passed the Enabling Act

Also known as the “Law to Remedy the Distress of People and Reich,” the act was a charmingly titled law that, in reality, handed Hitler absolute power and turned Germany into a totalitarian dictatorship.

Yes, the “Gesetz zur Behebung der Not von Volk und Reich”—a masterclass in euphemism. A harmless little law that merely allowed the Chancellor to “simplify” governance by eliminating the tiresome need for parliamentary approval. Who would not want a more efficient system, free from the meddlesome interference of the Reichstag or that increasingly irrelevant figure, President Hindenburg?

It was a truly inspired way to “remedy the distress” of the nation. By “remedy,” of course, one means “abolish democracy entirely and install an all-powerful dictatorship.” A foolproof plan with absolutely no potential for disaster.

After all, checks and balances are always such an inconvenience. Endless debate, tedious votes, and differing opinions only slows progress. Why burden the government with discussion when a single individual with, let us say, unwavering convictions, can make every decision unchallenged?

In sum, the Enabling Act was a marvellous leap towards a more “efficient” and “orderly” society. It helpfully streamlined Germany’s transition from the chaotic democracy of the Weimar Republic to the well-oiled machine of Nazi rule. A masterstroke of governance, would you not agree?

The high moors above Ingleby Greenhow were blanketed in mist this morning, spurring me to check on Medusa, that veteran oak that has thrived for centuries in a split rock. But it was still too early in the season to catch even a glimpse of the tree’s budding growth.

Medusa, that charming figure from Greek mythology, had a rather unique talent—one look, and you were stone. A fitting metaphor for terror so absolute that it renders its victims utterly helpless. The Third Reich took a similar approach, though with less mythology and more cold calculation. It mastered the art of fear, not with serpentine hair, but with grand spectacles of power, ruthless propaganda, and the efficient silencing of opposition. Why rely on reason when sheer terror ensures obedience? A nation frozen in fear is, after all, far easier to control.