How long had Hitler been planning World War 2?

Answer 1

Hitler was 50 years, 5 months and 11 days old when he started WW2.

Answer 2

I don't think Hitler thought about a World War like the one he got. I believe he was thinking about a series of wars starting with the Czechs, then the Poles and if necessary the French and British, followed by the Soviet Union. After that it is conjecture but I believe there is evidence he was going to build an ocean going navy to deal with the U.S. he was probably thinking along these lines in the mid 20's when he wrote Mein kampf. He would have formulated more detailed plans in the early to mid 30's. He had told his generals that he did not anticipate a full scale war (with Britain and France) until 1945 at the earliest. He told them this in the late 30's.

Answer 3

Adolf Hitler became Chancellor of Germany on January 30, 1933 and maintained that position throughout World War II which began on September 1, 1939. He was effectively Chancellor for a little over 6 years.