Paul von Hindenburg, a decorated general during World War I, served as President of Germany from 1925 to 1934. Despite his initial reluctance, Hindenburg assumed the presidency during a tumultuous period of economic crisis and political instability. His presidency witnessed both the rise of the Nazi Party and the appointment of Adolf Hitler as Chancellor. Hindenburg's decision to appoint Hitler, hoping to curb his power, ultimately backfired, as Hitler exploited Hindenburg's declining health and influence to consolidate his own authority.