In February 1933 the Reichstag - the parliament building - burned down. The Communists were blamed for this. In March, Hitler initiated what was called the 'Enabling Act', which transferred decision making to the Cabinet. Germany was now virtually under the total control of Hitler. One of the first aspects of German life to go was the process of democracy as Hitler sought to consolidate his power. Democracy was undermined, partly through persuasion, and partly by force.