Learn about the rise of the SS and its actions in Germany before the war. Doctor Tony Pollard explores the ruins of one of the largest construction projects undertaken by the SS. It is one of the last of their projects, but its roots trace back to the beginning of the Nazi rise to power. Hitler created the SS as his own personal bodyguard in 1925. One of the early recruits is Heinrich Himmler, who quickly rises through its ranks to become the SS leader and Hitler's right-hand man. Once Hitler takes control of Germany, Himmler and with him the SS's power grows. He becomes police chief of Munich and creates the first concentration camp to house political prisoners. He also gets rid of competition within the Nazi party by fabricating evidence against them, and having them imprisoned or killed.