The German referendum of 1934 was a pivotal moment in the consolidation of Adolf Hitler's power following the death of President Paul von Hindenburg. The referendum sought public approval for a proposed law that merged the office of the Chancellor and the presidency into a single entity, with Hitler at the helm under the new title of Führer. The context for this referendum was steeped in political turmoil and the Nazi regime's efforts to eliminate any form of dissent. Propaganda painted Hitler as Germany's savior and a strong leader capable of restoring the nation's former glory after the hardships imposed by the Treaty of Versailles.

Leading up to the referendum, the Nazi party organized a widespread campaign to ensure a favorable outcome, utilizing mass rallies, media control, and surveillance to intimidate would-be dissenters. The atmosphere was charged with nationalism, and many voters were swayed by the pressure to demonstrate patriotism and loyalty to the regime. The official results claimed that over 90% of the electorate supported the change, although the legitimacy of the vote was widely questioned due to the oppressive context in which it was conducted.

The successful referendum marked a critical step in the establishment of a totalitarian state in Germany. With full control over the executive power, Hitler could now legislate without the need for Reichstag approval, dismantling the democratic structures remaining from the Weimar Republic. This marked the escalation of state control over society, culminating in the aggressive expansionist policies of Nazi Germany, and set the stage for profound consequences in both Germany and Europe leading up to World War II.