What was the difference between the SS and the SA?

Answer 1

The SS (Schutzstaffel, German for "Protective Squadron")was the primary bodyguard of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party's "Shield Squadron" much like the Praetorian Guard of the Roman Empire. In 1936 under the command of Heinrich Himmler, it expanded and was responsible for the operations of the Concentration Camps and eliminating "enemies of the state" (Communists, Jews etc.)

The SA (Sturmabteilung, German for "Stormtroopers") also referred to as "Brownshirts", were Hitler's paramilitaries and were of key importance in Hitler's rise to power in the 1930s. With Ernst Röhm in command they often made attacks and raids on other political parties, particularly the communists and during elections they would surround the building to intimidate the voters to vote for the Nazis. They murdered political opponents and terrorized voters.

In June 1934 Hitler had Röhm and the SA purged and its role reduced. It was largely superseded by the SS.