Novel linear and hyper-branched aromatic polyamides having phenylazomethine units were synthesized by the poly-condensation of di-or triamine monomers containing azomethine bonds with dicarboxylic acids. The polymers obtained have a high solubility in DMF unlike polyphenylazomethines, a high thermal stability (Td(10%) > 500degreesC), and is susceptible to a simple and selective acid catalyzed decomposition for chemical recycling.