To maintain power, Hitler developed a complex governmental structure, with his own superiority secured. Part of the Nazi apparatus included a large group called the Sturmabteilung: Storm Troopers, who by 1934 had become very strong. Concerned that its leader, Ernst Röhm, might challenge him, Hitler, had Röhm assassinated in what was known as 'The Night of the Long Knives'. The 4.5 million members of the SA then came fully under Hitler's control. This was the kind of method Hitler was prepared to use to maintain his absolute power as Führer (leader) of the Third Reich.