rise and rule of single party state in germany 1918 – 1945: hitler and the nazis

Rise and Rule of Single Rise and Rule of Single Party State in GermanyParty State in Germany1918 – 1945:1918 – 1945:HITLER and the NazisHITLER and the Nazis

Paper 2 ReviewPaper 2 ReviewEverything you could ever want to know Everything you could ever want to know about Hitler for Paper 2, and then some!about Hitler for Paper 2, and then some!

Hitler Historical IssuesHitler Historical Issues How and Why were the Nazi’s able to gain power?How and Why were the Nazi’s able to gain power? Why was it possible to create and maintain a regime of such Why was it possible to create and maintain a regime of such

brutality?brutality? What exactly is Nazism and what does it representWhat exactly is Nazism and what does it represent Intentionalist SchoolIntentionalist School

Hitler Factor? The great man, albeit an evil one in this case, influences Hitler Factor? The great man, albeit an evil one in this case, influences History through his actionsHistory through his actions

Holds to a Hitler centered interpretation of the 3Holds to a Hitler centered interpretation of the 3rdrd Reich Reich Problem is it conveniently shifts all blame to the dead HitlerProblem is it conveniently shifts all blame to the dead Hitler

Structuralist SchoolStructuralist School Hitler’s role is over-statedHitler’s role is over-stated Focus on the apparatus of the Party and the StateFocus on the apparatus of the Party and the State Decisions are complexDecisions are complex

Fascist/Totalitarian Analysis Fascist/Totalitarian Analysis (Political Scientist focus)(Political Scientist focus) Germany is example of common mid-2oth Century political movementGermany is example of common mid-2oth Century political movement

Hitler Historical IssuesHitler Historical Issues Fascist/Totalitarian Analysis con’t Fascist/Totalitarian Analysis con’t (Political Scientist focus)(Political Scientist focus)

Left-wing political analysisLeft-wing political analysis Generic view of FascismGeneric view of Fascism Brought about by economic forces, and class issues in capitalist Brought about by economic forces, and class issues in capitalist

statesstates Nazism scene as a mere variety of FascismNazism scene as a mere variety of Fascism Roots are not Germanic or HitlerianRoots are not Germanic or Hitlerian

Liberal InterpretationLiberal Interpretation Prefer a totalitarian analysisPrefer a totalitarian analysis Look for similarities of left and rightLook for similarities of left and right Compare Mussolini, Franco, Stalin (can’t be studied in isolation)Compare Mussolini, Franco, Stalin (can’t be studied in isolation) ProblemProblem

Confirmation bias, force Nazi’s into pre-determined modelConfirmation bias, force Nazi’s into pre-determined model Ignore particular circumstances in GermanyIgnore particular circumstances in Germany

Racial/Foreign Policy InterpretationRacial/Foreign Policy Interpretation Unique racial focus of Nazi’s used to justify expansion and brutalityUnique racial focus of Nazi’s used to justify expansion and brutality Mass murder requires analysis and questions the nature of manMass murder requires analysis and questions the nature of man

Hitler Historical IssuesHitler Historical Issues The Question of the Third Reich as RevolutionaryThe Question of the Third Reich as Revolutionary

Is it an abhorrent revolution that alters Germany’s path?Is it an abhorrent revolution that alters Germany’s path? Is it a natural culmination of German development since the 1850’s?Is it a natural culmination of German development since the 1850’s? Kaisereich is authoritatarianKaisereich is authoritatarian Kaiser appoints Chancellor, controls army and foreign policyKaiser appoints Chancellor, controls army and foreign policy William II unsuited to ruleWilliam II unsuited to rule Industrial revolution upsets class structure (Mittlestand and workers)Industrial revolution upsets class structure (Mittlestand and workers) Army props up MonarchyArmy props up Monarchy Weimar a product of defeat and democratic parties blamed for itWeimar a product of defeat and democratic parties blamed for it Preserve traditional interests but implements democracyPreserve traditional interests but implements democracy Stable Period 1924-29 is a façadeStable Period 1924-29 is a façade

Hinderburg (President) is anti-democraticHinderburg (President) is anti-democratic Article 48 allows semi dictatorshipArticle 48 allows semi dictatorship Is the Third Reich based on continuity of military state structure of 1871 Is the Third Reich based on continuity of military state structure of 1871

or a break with the Past??? or a break with the Past???

Germany PreconditionsGermany Preconditions Germany as a single, unified state was created in 1871Germany as a single, unified state was created in 1871

Prussia had been its largest statePrussia had been its largest state Power was wielded by the Kaiser (emperor)Power was wielded by the Kaiser (emperor) There was an elected Parliament (Reichstag), but the country There was an elected Parliament (Reichstag), but the country

was authoritarianwas authoritarian Kaiser appoints PM, Bundesrat (Prus. Has 17 of 58 B-rat Kaiser appoints PM, Bundesrat (Prus. Has 17 of 58 B-rat

votes) approves all lawsvotes) approves all laws Germany underwent rapid industrialization in the late 1800s Germany underwent rapid industrialization in the late 1800s

(even surpassing GB)(even surpassing GB) Germany had Europe’s largest and best armyGermany had Europe’s largest and best army

Kaiser Wilhelm IIKaiser Wilhelm II (1888-1918) pursued an aggressive foreign (1888-1918) pursued an aggressive foreign policypolicy Food and fuel crisis 1916-17, Inflation 100%, Spanish FluFood and fuel crisis 1916-17, Inflation 100%, Spanish Flu

Germany Preconditions contGermany Preconditions cont WWIWWI

Germany was certainly partially to blame for the militarism, alliance Germany was certainly partially to blame for the militarism, alliance system, imperialism and other causes of WWIsystem, imperialism and other causes of WWI

Germany thought WWI would be short by using Schlieffen Plan to Germany thought WWI would be short by using Schlieffen Plan to defeat France and Russiadefeat France and Russia

But WWI became a war of attrition on all sidesBut WWI became a war of attrition on all sides By Sept 1918, German military commanders Ludendorf and By Sept 1918, German military commanders Ludendorf and

Hindenburg realize they cant win after Spring 1918 offensiveHindenburg realize they cant win after Spring 1918 offensive accepted that Germany could not escape defeataccepted that Germany could not escape defeat Try to shift blame for defeat to new gov’tTry to shift blame for defeat to new gov’t

Germany’s citizens were unable to accept the defeat and Germany’s citizens were unable to accept the defeat and turned on the governmentturned on the government Von Baden (Liberal) new Chancellor tries to preserve monarchyVon Baden (Liberal) new Chancellor tries to preserve monarchy Military control to Reichstag, Chancellor reports to R-stag Military control to Reichstag, Chancellor reports to R-stag Strikes, riots (King Louis deposed in Bavaria, 6 Soviets set up in Strikes, riots (King Louis deposed in Bavaria, 6 Soviets set up in

Berlin etc…), and mutinies (Navy rejects suicide mission) broke outBerlin etc…), and mutinies (Navy rejects suicide mission) broke out Angry over wasted sacrificesAngry over wasted sacrifices

Germany Preconditions contGermany Preconditions cont Kaiser Wilhelm IIKaiser Wilhelm II was forced to abdicate on Nov 9, 1918 was forced to abdicate on Nov 9, 1918 Germany was declared a republic, and led by center-left (SPD) Germany was declared a republic, and led by center-left (SPD)

Coalition:Coalition: Pres.: Pres.: Friedrich Ebert, Scheidemann Chancellor (Fear extreme Friedrich Ebert, Scheidemann Chancellor (Fear extreme

left)left) Problem is left is Split: SPD wants Socialist Parlimentary Problem is left is Split: SPD wants Socialist Parlimentary

Democracy, USPD want Soviets with Parliament, Sparticists Democracy, USPD want Soviets with Parliament, Sparticists want Soviets onlywant Soviets only

Germany signed a ceasefire to end WWIGermany signed a ceasefire to end WWI Provisional Gov’t until electionsProvisional Gov’t until elections Ebert-Groener gets Army support for Gov’t and to maintain orderEbert-Groener gets Army support for Gov’t and to maintain order Stinnes-Legien Agreement- Unions promise not to attack private property and Stinnes-Legien Agreement- Unions promise not to attack private property and

get legalization, 8-hour day, workers committeesget legalization, 8-hour day, workers committees

Germany held elections in January 1919Germany held elections in January 1919 The main political parties that supported democracy (Social The main political parties that supported democracy (Social

Democratic Party (SPD), Democratic Party (DDP), Centre Party Democratic Party (SPD), Democratic Party (DDP), Centre Party (ZP) ) received over 76% votes(ZP) ) received over 76% votes

Germany Preconditions contGermany Preconditions cont Weimar GovernmentWeimar Government opened in February – not in Berlin opened in February – not in Berlin

because of the chaos and riots therebecause of the chaos and riots there The assembly voted in July 1919 to accept the new The assembly voted in July 1919 to accept the new

constitution (Weimar Constitution)constitution (Weimar Constitution) President 7-yearsPresident 7-years

Can dissolve R-Stag, appoints chancellor (doesn’t have to be largest Can dissolve R-Stag, appoints chancellor (doesn’t have to be largest party), commands army, Article 48 party), commands army, Article 48 rule by decree in emergencyrule by decree in emergency

Reichstag 4 years, Reichstag 4 years, proportional representation, proportional representation, Reichsrat upper house only Reichsrat upper house only initiate or delay legislationinitiate or delay legislation

Supreme CourtSupreme Court

ScheidemannScheidemann, from the , from the Social Democratic PartySocial Democratic Party ( (SPDSPD), was the ), was the ChancellorChancellor

Germany Preconditions contGermany Preconditions cont Extremist Extremist right and left wing movements opposed democracy right and left wing movements opposed democracy

and were committed to overthrowing the new Republicand were committed to overthrowing the new Republic Civil Service, Courts, Army unreformed and right-wingCivil Service, Courts, Army unreformed and right-wing DNVP (Nationalists), and DVP (Const. Monarchy under DNVP (Nationalists), and DVP (Const. Monarchy under

Stresemann) get 15% of votesStresemann) get 15% of votes Key ProblemsKey Problems

Proportional RepresentationProportional Representation Splinter parties, no majorities, instability but what alternativeSplinter parties, no majorities, instability but what alternative

President v. Reichstag: Article 48 President v. Reichstag: Article 48 overcompensates for fear of R-Stag tyranny?overcompensates for fear of R-Stag tyranny?

G Craig argues the Article 48 Anomaly lets Hitler rise (however G Craig argues the Article 48 Anomaly lets Hitler rise (however it does work well in 1923)it does work well in 1923)

Civil institutions anti-democraticCivil institutions anti-democratic Even universities are rightistEven universities are rightist

Is the constitution bad or is it the political Is the constitution bad or is it the political environment???? Fatally Flawed????environment???? Fatally Flawed????

Germany Preconditions contGermany Preconditions cont Weimar government faced serious problems from the beginning:Weimar government faced serious problems from the beginning:

Anger and resentmentAnger and resentment over the Versailles Treaty over the Versailles Treaty Diktat, Weimar Gov’t blamed for Treaty “Stab in the Back” Diktat, Weimar Gov’t blamed for Treaty “Stab in the Back”

TheoryTheory Germans assumed fair peace, true terms shockingGermans assumed fair peace, true terms shocking

Loss of territory, no Self DeterminationLoss of territory, no Self Determination War Guilt Article 231War Guilt Article 231 Reparations 6,600 million pounds (Ger. Ultimately chooses Reparations 6,600 million pounds (Ger. Ultimately chooses

to monetize debt)to monetize debt) Saar to Lof N, Rheinland demilitarizedSaar to Lof N, Rheinland demilitarized Restricted military, no AnschlussRestricted military, no Anschluss Germany banned from Lof NGermany banned from Lof N

Revisionist view : Of course allies protect empiresRevisionist view : Of course allies protect empires USSR threat, multiple states involved not just GermanyUSSR threat, multiple states involved not just Germany Clemenceau gives up extreme demandsClemenceau gives up extreme demands Many lost areas are ethnically mixed, Austria, Sudeten Land never Ger.Many lost areas are ethnically mixed, Austria, Sudeten Land never Ger. Much less punitive than Brest-LitovskMuch less punitive than Brest-Litovsk

Germany Preconditions contGermany Preconditions cont Was Versailles that big a deal?Was Versailles that big a deal?

Economic problems of Weimar not purely from VersaillesEconomic problems of Weimar not purely from Versailles Dawes and Young Plans gives Germany more loans than the amount of Dawes and Young Plans gives Germany more loans than the amount of

reparations they payreparations they pay

Germany not destroyed like A/H, Russian or Ottoman EmpiresGermany not destroyed like A/H, Russian or Ottoman Empires Does create power vacuum Germany can exploit in Central Does create power vacuum Germany can exploit in Central

EuropeEurope Public opinion does blame Versailles howeverPublic opinion does blame Versailles however

Creates Stab in the back mythCreates Stab in the back myth Wartime nationalism expandsWartime nationalism expands Weimar blamed for WWI results even though olg Gov’t started the warWeimar blamed for WWI results even though olg Gov’t started the war

Germany Preconditions contGermany Preconditions cont Political Problems of WeimarPolitical Problems of Weimar Threats from the Threats from the LEFTLEFT:: Background:Background:

Extreme left-wing socialist movement known as the Extreme left-wing socialist movement known as the SparticistsSparticists set up the set up the German Communist PartyGerman Communist Party ((KPDKPD))

KPD wanted a Bolshevik-style governmentKPD wanted a Bolshevik-style government KPD contested many elections in the 1920s and KPD contested many elections in the 1920s and

consistently received 10-15% of the voteconsistently received 10-15% of the vote The KPD and the SPD would not work together The KPD and the SPD would not work together

(except in the case of the German October, 1923) (except in the case of the German October, 1923) and made it easier for Hitler to come to power in and made it easier for Hitler to come to power in 19331933

Germany Background contGermany Background cont The Sparticist UprisingThe Sparticist Uprising – January 1919 – January 1919

Staged in Berlin by the Sparticists (left wing Socialists)Staged in Berlin by the Sparticists (left wing Socialists) Occupy public buildings, 100 killedOccupy public buildings, 100 killed Leaders Rosa Luxembourg and Liebknecht murdered in Police Leaders Rosa Luxembourg and Liebknecht murdered in Police

custodycustody Put down by the Put down by the freikorpsfreikorps (extreme right-wing ex-soldiers) (extreme right-wing ex-soldiers) March 1919 Bavaria declared Soviet Republic crushed by FreikorpsMarch 1919 Bavaria declared Soviet Republic crushed by Freikorps

Communist UprisingCommunist Uprising in the Ruhr – March 1920 in the Ruhr – March 1920 Set up their own gov’t at Essen and in April briefly took over MunichSet up their own gov’t at Essen and in April briefly took over Munich German army intervened and killed hundreds of communistsGerman army intervened and killed hundreds of communists 50,000 Workers Army (Crushed by Army and Freikorps)50,000 Workers Army (Crushed by Army and Freikorps) March 1921 Merseburg/Holle KPD strikes crushed by PoliceMarch 1921 Merseburg/Holle KPD strikes crushed by Police

““German October”German October” – 1923 – 1923 The German Communist Party (KPD) organized strikes and demonstrations, and The German Communist Party (KPD) organized strikes and demonstrations, and

joined with the Social Democratic Party (SPD) to win control of local joined with the Social Democratic Party (SPD) to win control of local governmentsgovernments

Berlin used the army to arrest KPD ministers and dissolve the disturbancesBerlin used the army to arrest KPD ministers and dissolve the disturbances

Germany Background contGermany Background cont Threats from the Threats from the RIGHT:RIGHT:

Background:Background: Anti-Marxist, Anti-Democratic, NationalistAnti-Marxist, Anti-Democratic, Nationalist Stab in the Back, November Criminals (pacifists, Stab in the Back, November Criminals (pacifists,

Socialists, democrats, Jews part of Weimar conspiracy)Socialists, democrats, Jews part of Weimar conspiracy) Many German nationalists never accepted the Weimar Many German nationalists never accepted the Weimar

Republic because it had accepted the Treaty of Republic because it had accepted the Treaty of VersaillesVersailles

Many conservative elites (large landowners, big Many conservative elites (large landowners, big industrialists, senior army officers, judges and civil industrialists, senior army officers, judges and civil servants) only sort of, kind of supported the new gov’t – servants) only sort of, kind of supported the new gov’t – often they were actually hostileoften they were actually hostile

Many wanted restoration of the monarchy or some Many wanted restoration of the monarchy or some authoritarian alternativeauthoritarian alternative

Germany Background contGermany Background cont Threats from the Threats from the RIGHT:RIGHT:

Background:Background: OrganizationsOrganizations DNVP- German Nat’l Proples PartyDNVP- German Nat’l Proples Party

Old conservatives, racists, extremistsOld conservatives, racists, extremists

Volkisch NationalismVolkisch Nationalism 70 splinter parties DAP later NSDAP (NAZI) is one70 splinter parties DAP later NSDAP (NAZI) is one

FreikorpsFreikorps Consul OrganizationConsul Organization

Right wing assassins (of 376 Weimar political murders 354 are Right wing assassins (of 376 Weimar political murders 354 are committed by the right)committed by the right)

Germany Background contGermany Background cont The Kapp PutschThe Kapp Putsch – March 1920 – March 1920

Wolfgang Kapp and General von Luttwitz attempted to overthrow the Wolfgang Kapp and General von Luttwitz attempted to overthrow the gov’tgov’t

Thousands of unemployed soldiers joined the Thousands of unemployed soldiers joined the Freikorps Freikorps units to units to seize control of Berlinseize control of Berlin

Regular army (Regular army (ReichswehrReichswehr) was ordered to attack the former ) was ordered to attack the former soldiers, but they refusedsoldiers, but they refused ““Troops don’t shoot at troops”Troops don’t shoot at troops”

Trade unions in Berlin went on strike paralyzing the cityTrade unions in Berlin went on strike paralyzing the city After 4 days, Kapp realized he could not succeed and he fled the After 4 days, Kapp realized he could not succeed and he fled the

countrycountry Not really a Weimar successNot really a Weimar success

Army is unreliable “state within a state”Army is unreliable “state within a state” Kapp dies before trial, only 1 0f 705 found guiltyKapp dies before trial, only 1 0f 705 found guilty

Germany Background contGermany Background cont The “White Terror’The “White Terror’ – 1920-22 – 1920-22

Many political murders and high level assassinationsMany political murders and high level assassinations FreikorpsFreikorps was mainly responsible was mainly responsible Erzeberger (ZP) and Rathenau (ZP) killedErzeberger (ZP) and Rathenau (ZP) killed

Only 24 of 354 right wing assassins found guilty no death penaltiesOnly 24 of 354 right wing assassins found guilty no death penalties 10 of 22 left wing assassins guilty all executed10 of 22 left wing assassins guilty all executed

The Beerhall PutschThe Beerhall Putsch – November 8, 1923 – November 8, 1923 Hitler and his SA took over a govt meeting in BavariaHitler and his SA took over a govt meeting in Bavaria The local leader (Kahr) escaped and warned the police and armyThe local leader (Kahr) escaped and warned the police and army Nov 9 the Nazis marched on Munich, but the army was ready and Nov 9 the Nazis marched on Munich, but the army was ready and

arrested many Nazisarrested many Nazis Hitler was tried, convicted and sentenced to 5 years, but only spent 9 Hitler was tried, convicted and sentenced to 5 years, but only spent 9

months in jail – used trial as a bully pulpit and won over many new months in jail – used trial as a bully pulpit and won over many new supporterssupporters

In jail he wrote In jail he wrote Mein Kampf Mein Kampf and decided to work from within the system and decided to work from within the system rather than against itrather than against it

Germany Background contGermany Background cont Outcome of Political Instability of WeimarOutcome of Political Instability of Weimar

Success v. left and right disguises weaknessesSuccess v. left and right disguises weaknesses 1920 Elections Democratic vote (SPD, DDP, ZP) drops to 48% from 76%1920 Elections Democratic vote (SPD, DDP, ZP) drops to 48% from 76% DNVP up to 15%DNVP up to 15% KPD up to 20% from 7%KPD up to 20% from 7%

What was wrong with the What was wrong with the Weimar Constitution?Weimar Constitution?

Background:Background: All men and women over 20 could voteAll men and women over 20 could vote Reichstag had great powerReichstag had great power Ministers were accountable to Reichstag rather Ministers were accountable to Reichstag rather

than the Presidentthan the President

WeaknessesWeaknesses:: Voting system was Voting system was proportionalproportional representation representation

Small parties could get seats in govt – factionalism Small parties could get seats in govt – factionalism slows govt – no party could get a majorityslows govt – no party could get a majority

1919-23 saw 8 different coalition governments1919-23 saw 8 different coalition governments Very instableVery instable

What was wrong with the What was wrong with the Weimar Constitution?Weimar Constitution?

Weaknesses cont:Weaknesses cont: Article 48Article 48 of Constitution gave President of Constitution gave President

extensive extensive emergency powersemergency powers Could suspend civil liberties in emergenciesCould suspend civil liberties in emergencies Hindenburg used this frequently to bypass the Hindenburg used this frequently to bypass the

stalemates in the Reichstag 1930-32stalemates in the Reichstag 1930-32 Hindenburg also used it in 1933 after the Hindenburg also used it in 1933 after the

Reichstag Fire:Reichstag Fire: Hitler was then able to arrest many communist and Hitler was then able to arrest many communist and

socialist opponents and close down their socialist opponents and close down their newspapersnewspapers

This was an important step toward his creation of a This was an important step toward his creation of a single party statesingle party state

Economic Problems 1919-23Economic Problems 1919-23 High unemployment and low industrial outputHigh unemployment and low industrial output

WWI soldiers couldn’t find workWWI soldiers couldn’t find work Destruction from WWIDestruction from WWI

Germany Germany lost valuable resourceslost valuable resources from TofV from TofV Poland and France both received mineral rich land from Germany for Poland and France both received mineral rich land from Germany for

15 years15 years Exports collapse as other countries rebuildExports collapse as other countries rebuild

InflationInflation was serious since start of WWI was serious since start of WWI War bonds debt massive as short war had been anticipated War bonds debt massive as short war had been anticipated Debt 5 bi. 1915, 144bi. 1919 84% of war borrowed Debt 5 bi. 1915, 144bi. 1919 84% of war borrowed Erzeberger decides on deficit spendingErzeberger decides on deficit spending Maintain demand, solve demobilization, pay for welfare stateMaintain demand, solve demobilization, pay for welfare state Deficit and inflation will lower real rate of debt (Reparations hurt, but Deficit and inflation will lower real rate of debt (Reparations hurt, but

not the real cause)not the real cause) Government continued to print more money to make it even worseGovernment continued to print more money to make it even worse Reparations added to the situationReparations added to the situation 1914: 20 marks = 1 1914: 20 marks = 1 £ 1923: 16,000,000,000,000 = 1 ££ 1923: 16,000,000,000,000 = 1 £

Hyper-Inflation of 1923Hyper-Inflation of 1923 January 1923 Germany failed to pay reparations ask for third January 1923 Germany failed to pay reparations ask for third

Holiday on Reparations and declared in defaultHoliday on Reparations and declared in default France and Belgium sent 60,000 troops into the RuhrFrance and Belgium sent 60,000 troops into the Ruhr German workers in the region strike – passive resistanceGerman workers in the region strike – passive resistance Clashes killed about 150 GermansClashes killed about 150 Germans French seal Ruhr off from the rest of GermanyFrench seal Ruhr off from the rest of Germany

Ruhr produced 80% of Germany’s steel and 70% of its coalRuhr produced 80% of Germany’s steel and 70% of its coal No taxes collected and finances collapseNo taxes collected and finances collapse Devastating impact on Germany’s economyDevastating impact on Germany’s economy German unemployment went from 2% to 23%German unemployment went from 2% to 23%

ConsequencesConsequences Traditional: Middle class destroyedTraditional: Middle class destroyed Revisionist: Winners: Debtors (mortgages, loans, homes paid Revisionist: Winners: Debtors (mortgages, loans, homes paid

off, borrow cheaply, buy land/factories), exporters, The State off, borrow cheaply, buy land/factories), exporters, The State (pays off debts)(pays off debts)

Losers: savers, investors, bond holders, fixed incomes, Losers: savers, investors, bond holders, fixed incomes, pensioners, landlords, welfarepensioners, landlords, welfare

Hyper-Inflation of 1923Hyper-Inflation of 1923 StresemannStresemann became chancellor in Aug 1923: became chancellor in Aug 1923:

Led a brief coalition in government of DVP, DDP ZP, SPDLed a brief coalition in government of DVP, DDP ZP, SPD Brought in Brought in SchachtSchacht (banker) to help with currency crisis (banker) to help with currency crisis

Cuts spending, 700,000 Gov’t workers firedCuts spending, 700,000 Gov’t workers fired

Ordered Ruhr workers to Ordered Ruhr workers to cooperatecooperate with the French with the French Resumed Resumed reparationsreparations payments payments Introduced Introduced new currencynew currency (Rentenmark) (Rentenmark) 1 rentenmark = 10,000,000,000,000 marks1 rentenmark = 10,000,000,000,000 marks

Leads to Dawes PlanLeads to Dawes Plan Left and Right threats recedeLeft and Right threats recede

1924 Rentenmark was replaced with 1924 Rentenmark was replaced with ReichsmarkReichsmark which which continued until 1945continued until 1945

Hyper-Inflation of 1923Hyper-Inflation of 1923 Why doesn’t Weimar collapse???Why doesn’t Weimar collapse???

People more angry at France than WeimarPeople more angry at France than Weimar Inflation doesn’t hurt workers and helps many businessesInflation doesn’t hurt workers and helps many businesses Employers choose not to lay off workersEmployers choose not to lay off workers No real alternativeNo real alternative

Strengths of Weimar economyStrengths of Weimar economy Heavy industry back to 1913 levels by 1928Heavy industry back to 1913 levels by 1928 Huge banks, cartelsHuge banks, cartels Exports up 40% wages up 5-10%Exports up 40% wages up 5-10% Social welfare: unemployment, sick pay, education, sportsSocial welfare: unemployment, sick pay, education, sports

WeaknessesWeaknesses Growth uneven and declines after 1926Growth uneven and declines after 1926 Trade deficit every yearTrade deficit every year Average 2 mi. unemployed, world conditions stop exportsAverage 2 mi. unemployed, world conditions stop exports Agri, income down 50%Agri, income down 50% Inflation discourages savings and investmentInflation discourages savings and investment Welfare state requires more and more debtWelfare state requires more and more debt

Long-term effects of Hyper-Long-term effects of Hyper-InflationInflation Many in the Many in the middle classmiddle class who lost their who lost their

savings in hyper-inflation were permanently savings in hyper-inflation were permanently alienated from Weimar Republicalienated from Weimar Republic

Germany had a shortage of Germany had a shortage of domestic domestic business investmentbusiness investment – needed for future – needed for future increases in GDPincreases in GDP

Germany was increasingly dependent on Germany was increasingly dependent on loansloans from USA (Dawes Plan). The Dawes from USA (Dawes Plan). The Dawes Plan helped the situation in 1924-28, but Plan helped the situation in 1924-28, but when the economy in US tumbled in 1929, when the economy in US tumbled in 1929, the US called back many of its loans the US called back many of its loans compounding the bad situation in Germanycompounding the bad situation in Germany

The Good Years 1924-29The Good Years 1924-29

Some historians believe the prosperity would Some historians believe the prosperity would not have lasted in Germany even without the not have lasted in Germany even without the Great DepressionGreat Depression

Some historians believe the issues in the US Some historians believe the issues in the US really caused the collapse of the German really caused the collapse of the German economy in 1929economy in 1929

Evidence of Progress 1924-Evidence of Progress 1924-2929

EconomicEconomic Dawes Plan inserted needed $ into economyDawes Plan inserted needed $ into economy By 1928, industry exceeded its 1913 numbersBy 1928, industry exceeded its 1913 numbers Foreign exports increased 40% from 1925-29Foreign exports increased 40% from 1925-29

SocialSocial Workers’ wages rose 21% in 1927-28 alone, making them Workers’ wages rose 21% in 1927-28 alone, making them

the highest paid in Europethe highest paid in Europe Government spending on health, education and social Government spending on health, education and social

services was hugeservices was huge 1913 – 37% of govt spending1913 – 37% of govt spending 1932 – 68% of govt spending1932 – 68% of govt spending

New universities in Hamburg and CologneNew universities in Hamburg and Cologne Unemployment insurance issued for 17 million workers in Unemployment insurance issued for 17 million workers in

19271927

Evidence of Progress 1924-29Evidence of Progress 1924-29

Cultural Germany (esp. Berlin) became a vibrant cultural

center Architecture – Bauhaus design movement Literature – Thomas Mann, Nobel Prize 1929

Political There were no further attempts to seize power by

the extreme Left or Right 1928 elections – both KPD (Communists) and

DNVP (Nationalists) lost seats (KPD 62 to 54 seats, DNVP 95 to 73). Nazis only have 12 seats


Political cont Moderate parties made huge gains – Social

Democrats (SPD) from 100 to 153 seats 1928 – 1930, Grand Coalition of SPD (Social

Democrats) DDP (Democratic Party) DVP (People’s Party) and ZP (Center Party) have over 60% of seats in Reichstag

KPD and DNVP (Nat’l Conservatives) decline Hindenburg’s election in 1925 as President was

a stabilizing factor as he was seen as a “Kaiser-substitute”


Germany’s International Situation Gustav Stresemann (leader of German People’s Party)

Originally Opposed Weimar moves to Center after Rathanau, Erzberger assassinations

Wants to accept parts of Versailles to end its effects He was briefly Chancellor in 1923 Then became Foreign Minister until his death in 1929 Plan

Acknowledge French security issues Use trade to cultivate US/GB Cooperate with allies but keep ties to USSR

Policies were unpopular with the Nationalists but he made Germany accepted again diplomatically and even won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1926 along with Aristide Briand (French Foreign Minister) for trying to improve Franco-German relations)

Stresemann’s Achievements Actions:

Negotiated the withdrawal of French and Belgians from Ruhr in 1924

Helped negotiate Dawes Plan in 1924 Stresemann’s suggestion of recognizing and

guaranteeing Western Europe’s frontiers was finalized into Locarno Pact of 1925

Germany was allowed in League of Nations 1926 Negotiated a partial withdrawal of the Rhineland by the

Allies in 1928 Negotiated the Young Plan in 1929 which reduced the

total reparations bill by almost two-thirds When he died he was negotiating the final withdrawal of

the Allied troops from Rhineland which happened earlier than scheduled in 1930 Leave early in exchage for final reparations settlement only 25%

of original size

Evidence of continuing problems under Stresemann? Illusion of Stability???

Political Coalitions unstable:

SPD and DNVP never join coalitions 1923-1928 and KPD is isolated

Center-right ZP, DVP, DNVP agree on domestic but not foreign policy

Broad coalition SPD, DDP, DVP, ZP agree on foreign policy but not domestic

Minority Centrist Coalitions DDP, DVP, ZP need help from left or right

7 Govt’s 1923-30 SPD never joins til 1928, ZP moves right DDP,DVP (Liberals)

support collapses

Evidence of continuing problems under Stresemann? Political

German Nationalist Party (DNVP) Hates Wemar but joins gov’ts to have influence after 1925 1928 becomes radical right under Alfred Hugenberg Reverts to total opposition and works with Nazis opposed the Young Plan because it implied Germany still

accepted war guilt.

1928 Ebert dies and Hinderburg is President Surprises all by being loyal to constitution he dislikes Functions as a quasi-Kaiser

Prefers DNVP and tries to exclude SPD

Center Party also moved to the right

Evidence of continuing problems under Stresemann? Political

Overall the government doesn’t get stronger over time!!! One gov’t falls over which flag to fly Another over creating religious schools

“Grand Coalition” was unstable as it tried to negotiate with a range of parties from right of center to left.

In 1930 it collapsed after the SPD argued with its Center Party coalition partners over how to respond to the Great Depression

Overall Stresemann accomplishes a lot considering what he has to work with but…

… Fails to generate real support for Weimar

Evidence of continuing problems under Stresemann?

Economic Germany was heavily reliant on US loans Unemployment never went below 1.3 million and

was up to 1.9 million by 1929 Crash Agriculture was way behind industrial recovery in

1920s (tough competition from American and Canadian efficiency)

Social Farm workers’ wages were only just over half the

national average in 1929

Rise and Rule of Single Rise and Rule of Single Party State in GermanyParty State in Germany1918 – 1945:1918 – 1945:HITLER Rise to PowerHITLER Rise to Power

Paper 2 ReviewPaper 2 ReviewEverything you could ever want to know Everything you could ever want to know about Hitler for Paper 2, and then some!about Hitler for Paper 2, and then some!

The Nazi Party and Hitler Hitler born 1889 in Austria

Poor student moves to Vienna 1907 Wanted to be an architect but applications to school were

rejected by fine Arts Academy in Vienna 6 years in Vienna, Sold scenic paintings to earn a living Became interested in writings of racist authors (like Lanz von

Liebenfels) Began to believe that Germans were superior to other nationalities of

the Austro-Hungarian Empire (mainly Slavs) and the rest of the world

Finds Purpose in WWI Joins Bavarian Regt., fights bravely (Iron Cross) gassed at the end of

the war Forms core Ideas: Nationalis; anti democratic and anti-socialist, ati-

semitic Racial view of society with German Volk as master race

The Nazi Party and Hitler Psychological interpretations of Hitler are

weak One argues Hitler noted that many leading

Socialists and Communists were Jews (Stab in the Back Theory)

Another that a Jewish prostitute gave him syphilis He was a loner with no real friends so no one truly

knows his motivations

The Nazi Party and Hitler Post-war he is a gov’t spy for the Army in Bavaria

tracking left wing groups January 1919 Anton Drexler set up German Workers’

Party (DAP) to join working class and nationalists Sounds like a leftist party so Hitler investigates Actually nationalist, anti-semitic, anti-capitalist Hitler joins and immediately put on its Committee Hitler was put in charge of recruitment and propaganda in

September 1919 Helps produce the 25 Point Program

(combined nationalist and socialist demands, a “guide book” for Nazis)

1. Pan-Germanism, end Versailles, Lebensraum, expel Jews, People’s army, deport non-citizens to help employment, community over individual, profit sharing, Political war

The Nazi Party and Hitler Mid 1921 is clear driving force of Party

1921 Hitler set up the Sturmabteilung (storm-troopers, or SA) Rousing speeches, swastika, salute, uniforms are his idea Drexler tries to limit Hitler’s power For first time Hitler shows his skill as a politician and his willingness to gamble

everything to win He resigns from Nazi Party Nazi’s realize he is their best speaker and demand his return forcing Drexler to Resign

Hitler is now Fuhrer of the DAP SA was originally used to protect party meetings, and made up of former Freikorps

Fights pitched battles with communists in streets (Win the streets!) People’s Observer Newspaper set up 1922 Brings in Streicher form N. Bavaria adds his newspaper Goering joins in 1922, war hero, landowner = Social Contacts

Party was renamed National Socialist German Workers Party (NSDAP) in 1921 Hitler and Nazis aimed to seize power by force, modeled on Mussolini’s March on Rome in

Oct 1922 Led to the Munich Putsch (Beer Hall Putsch) which failed and Hitler sentenced to jail

What did Hitler learn from the failed Beer Hall Putsch?

He changed his tactics – used legal method rather than revolution

Party needed to broaden appeal beyond working-class. He moved away from socialist ideas in the 25 Points toward more nationalist elements of the middle-class

Successfully reorganized the fractured Nazi Party after his stay in prison

SA were reorganized and given greater responsibility over propaganda

Founded SS (Shutzstaffel – bodyguards) and the Hitler youth in 1926

Party membership remained low – 35,000 in 1926 and only 12 seats in Reichstag in 1928 (3% of vote)

The Wall Street Crash of 1929

Effect on German Economy: US investors withdrew money from Germany German businesses went bankrupt and banks

collapsed Unemployment soared

Late 1920s – just under 2 million 1930 – 3.5 million 1931 – 4.4 million 1932 – 6 million

Prices fell – lower profit margins forced more businesses to go bankrupt

Value of German exports fell more than 50%

The Wall Street Crash of 1929 Impact on German Politics:

Revived violent and unstable politics of 1918-23 Large-scale street violence Each political party had its own paramilitary

Nazi SA Communist Red Front

Extremists grew in number and power Chancellor Brüning (1930-32) was traditional and

cautious Kept government spending and taxes down Waited for economy to improve The unemployed were furious and turned to extremist

political parties 1930 - Nazis won 107 seats, Communists won 89

Nazis Membership Grows Hitler was looked to as a ‘messiah’ to ‘save’ Germany As unemployment skyrockets, so does Nazi party

membership (Nazis promised job creation) Weak leadership in government made Hitler look

even better (Hitler even got 13 million votes to Hindenburg’s 18 million in April 1932 showing how strong a following he had)

Many were worried about a communist revolution and the 700,000 strong SA seemed to be able to provide security

Appealed to small farmers and peasants struggling under debt and falling food prices (they were promised subsidies)

Nazi Membership Grows Nazis got support from lower middle-class

(teachers, civil servants, etc) fearing they would become unemployed

SA was predominantly working-class, but Nazis had little support from this group overall

Nazis received financial backing from some leading industrialists who were worried about the socialists

Presented an image of dynamism and youth Campaign tactics were more modern Mass rallies created sense of belonging

Nazi Membership Grows Nazi Propaganda (Goebbels) used different

messages for different groups Subsidies to peasants Law and order and return to traditional values to middle

class Jobs for unemployed Defense against communist revolution and revival of

Germany as great power to conservative nationalists

At the same time promised to unite all Germans Jews, democratic system, Communists, and WWI

victors were provided as scapegoats for Germany’s problems

Nazi Membership Grows None of this was new, so why were these

messages more effective in the 1930s than in the 1920s? Widespread disillusionment with the Weimar

Republic and democratic parties was far greater, as was the scale of Germany’s economic problems

Hitler had created a more respectable image for the Nazis after his release from prison and was therefore able to win more middle class support

Breakdown of Democratic Government (1930-32)

No political party could command a majority in Reichstag

Article 48 of Weimar constitution gave president authority to declare state of emergency and govern by decree without consulting parliament

Hindenburg (President) Didn’t like the Weimar Republic Was a Nationalist Thought the Nazis were thugs, but hated Social

Democrats and Communists even more


1930 Hindenburg dismissed Chancellor Müller’s government and appointed Brüning (Center Party) to Chancellor

Brüning had little support in Reichstag but was able to rule because of Hindenburg’s use of emergency powers to pass laws

Hindenburg grew tired of having to support Brüning so he replaced him with conservative von Papen (but he had even less support)

Hindenburg agreed to call a general election in July 1932 Nazis triumphantly won 230 seats in Parliament (largest

single party in Parliament, but not yet a majority – still needed to form a coalition)


Hindenburg asked Hitler to join a coalition, but Hitler refused unless he could be Chancellor

Hindenburg refused (hated Hitler and feared SA) and called a second general election in November 1932 Nazis lost seats (down to 196) but was still largest

single party

Hindenburg fired von Papen for not being able to form a coalition and replaced him with General Kurt von Schleicher


Nazi morale was low Lost seats in second election Low on money from two campaigns Some in party were becoming impatient and

were calling for an armed rising

Von Schleicher tried to take advantage and split the Nazi party by getting support of the ‘left-wing’ Nazis, but this did not work

Hitler quickly reasserted his control over the Nazis

Why was Hitler appointed Chancellor on Jan 30, 1933?

Hindenburg decided it was the only way to achieve a majority coalition

Hindenburg actually didn’t mind offering it to him (he wasn’t worried) since the Nazi’s position was a bit weaker than it had been in November

Only 3 of the 11 Cabinet ministers were Nazi

From Chancellor to Dictator in 1.5 years

1933 January Hitler appointed Chancellor February Reichstag fire

Communists and union leaders arrested

March Reichstag elections Nazis won 44%, Nationalists only 8%

March Enabling Act Hitler could then bypass the Reichstag to make laws

March State parliaments are Nazi majority (all state parliaments abolished in 1934)


1933 cont April

Hitler replaced all 18 state governors with Nazis

May Trade unions banned and replaced by the German Labour Front

June All parties except Nazis banned

July Law passed making the Nazi Party the sole legal party


1934 June Night of the Long Knives

Ernst Rohm and other SA leaders arrested or killed Hitler claimed they had been planning a putsch SA absorbed into the military

August President Hindenburg died Hitler made himself Fuhrer, combining positions of

President and Chancellor Army swore an oath of loyalty to Hitler

Hitler’s Ideology

This is not clearly defined, although his reasoning is set forth in Mein Kampf. It was different from Mussolini’s fascism in that Hitler had a unique racial and anti-Semitic program not present in Italy. The Nazi’s 25 Points of 1920 were a strange mix of nationalist and socialist elements. It became clear though that Hitler was not committed to the socialist element.

Hitler’s Ideology Elements that Predate Hitler

Racial Superiority: Herrenvolk, and goal to unite all Germans Anti-Semitism: de Gobineau, von Gerder, Langbehn, German elites anti-semitic Leader Cult: Fuehrerprincip: Superior indivuals to lead lower orders who are

unthinking and easily swayed Social Darwinism: Herbert Spencer; instinctive fight for survival Nationalism/ Volksgemeinschaft: Corporatism: anti-democratic, compromise evil, state is all

Hitler in 1920’s Anti-feminism War Ideology Lebenraum Racial unity and anti-semitism defined (Big Capitalists or Communists, stab in the

back) Pan-Germanism End Versailles Anti-Marxism

How Important was Hitler’s Ideology to His Rule?

25 Point Program is refined throughout the ‘20’s Anti-Marxism becomes a dominant theme Nazi’s claim only they are strong enough to fight Marxists Jewish/Communist link

Nationalism overwhelms socialist elements of 25 Points Ideology Important?

Attracts & inspires followers http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vezr3dW4J5s&bpctr=1389965548

Bases many policies on Ideology

Gleichshaltung: eliminate unions, political parties, Church Organizations (all dissenting voices)

Nationalism: end Versailles Hitler Youth = Volksgemeinschaft Nationalism = Krystallnacht, final solution Inconsistent on anti-feminism (ebbs and flows as a result of WWII

Avoids war for 6 years No aid to agriculture

Hitler’s Ideology cont

The Volk community was everything to Hitler, the individual was nothing. His aim was to create a society in which every individual saw the purpose of their life as contributing to the greater good of the German volk. He attacked individual rights and his Volksgemeinschaft had no room for asocials, disabled, or non-Aryans

Policy toward asocials

1936 “asocial colony” of HashudeFor chronic alcoholicsLate 1930s they were sent to

concentration camps 10,000 tramps were sent to concentration

camps 25,000 gypsies (Germany had about 30,000)

died in camps in WWII

Policy towards the disabled

1932 the Prussian Health Council proposed voluntary sterilization for certain hereditary diseases

July 1933 Nazi Sterilization Law made it compulsory (320,000 were sterilized)

Euthanasia 1939-41 Physically and mentally handicapped (72,000)

Anti-Semitic policies May 1933 SA organized one day boycott of Jewish

businesses Shortly after Hitler in power, Jewish civil servants are

fired 1935 Nuremberg Laws deprive Jews of German

citizenship 1938 Kristallnacht

Attack on Jewish properties and synagogues 20,000 Jews arrested Jews made to pay for cleanup Jewish doctors and lawyers were forbidden to work for

Aryans Jewish children had to attend separate schools

1942 Wansee Conference Final Solution (extermination of Jews) was decided

Hitler’s System of GovernmentHitler’s System of Government

Single party Dictatorship?Single party Dictatorship? Control at the centerControl at the center Hermann Goering brought in 50;000 extra police (mainly sA) Hermann Goering brought in 50;000 extra police (mainly sA)

and purged many policemenand purged many policemen Reichstag Fire led to suspension of civil liberties Reichstag Fire led to suspension of civil liberties

Destruction of the Communist party Destruction of the Communist party Enabling Act, by which Hitler : bypass the ReichstagEnabling Act, by which Hitler : bypass the Reichstag

No opposition groupsNo opposition groups Trade unions were banned replaced by the German Labour FrontTrade unions were banned replaced by the German Labour Front SPD was banned SPD was banned one party state one party state State parliaments were abolished and state governments made State parliaments were abolished and state governments made

subordinate to the Reich subordinate to the Reich army's oath of allegiance to Hitlerarmy's oath of allegiance to Hitler


Was Nazi control fully in place?Was Nazi control fully in place? Reichsrat and state parliaments abolished but rest of Weimar Reichsrat and state parliaments abolished but rest of Weimar

Constitution remainsConstitution remains Civil Service purged but not all Nazi’s til 1939Civil Service purged but not all Nazi’s til 1939 Reich Ministers not all Nazi’s til 1937Reich Ministers not all Nazi’s til 1937 Himmler does control police by 1936Himmler does control police by 1936 Army remains quasi-independentArmy remains quasi-independent

SA “People’s Army” Scrapped by Hitler to appease Regular ArmySA “People’s Army” Scrapped by Hitler to appease Regular Army Army Nationalist but fears rapid re-armament, Waffen – SS and Hitler’s Army Nationalist but fears rapid re-armament, Waffen – SS and Hitler’s

goal of expansion in Russiagoal of expansion in Russia Purge begins 1938 with dismissal of War Minister and the Army Purge begins 1938 with dismissal of War Minister and the Army

Commander in Chief for “sex scandals” (false)Commander in Chief for “sex scandals” (false) Keitel becomes head of High Command (OKW) but he is Hitler’s stoogeKeitel becomes head of High Command (OKW) but he is Hitler’s stooge 16 Generals resign, 44 transferred, Hitler now controls Army16 Generals resign, 44 transferred, Hitler now controls Army


Was full control ever established?Was full control ever established? Hitler undermines order appoints several people to essentially the same Hitler undermines order appoints several people to essentially the same

jobjob Have to compete for Hitler’s attentionHave to compete for Hitler’s attention Adds new institutions rather than eliminating anyAdds new institutions rather than eliminating any Example: Four Year Plan Office, Road and Defense Building Dept. and Example: Four Year Plan Office, Road and Defense Building Dept. and

Economics Ministry all have overlapping functionsEconomics Ministry all have overlapping functions Sets up Nazi Party Reich Authorities that have same jobs as regular Sets up Nazi Party Reich Authorities that have same jobs as regular

Government MinistriesGovernment Ministries

Cabinet Gov’t ceasesCabinet Gov’t ceases Meets 72 times 1933, 4 times 1936, never again after 1938Meets 72 times 1933, 4 times 1936, never again after 1938

Hitler is notoriously lazy and uninterested in day to day governance Hitler is notoriously lazy and uninterested in day to day governance particularly economicsparticularly economics

Question is whether chaos was deliberate Question is whether chaos was deliberate to force all ministries to come to him (Strong Dictator theory Trevor-Roper, to force all ministries to come to him (Strong Dictator theory Trevor-Roper,

Bracher, Bullock)Bracher, Bullock) … … or an accident of 1933-34 power seizure (Weak Dictator theory (Mommsen, or an accident of 1933-34 power seizure (Weak Dictator theory (Mommsen,

Broszat) Broszat)

The Use of FEAR Decree for the Protection of People and State

Feb 1933 allowed for indefinite detention w/o trial

Dachau 1st concentration camp opened in March 1933 Never fewer than 10,000 prisoners Overall about 225,000 imprisoned for political

reasons (far fewer than Stalin)

Hermann Goering set up Gestapo in 1933 Heinrich Himmler took over In some cases over 50% of all charges were

brought to the police by citizens

The Use of FEAR cont SS created in 1925 (Himmler in control after

1929) Immense power after Night of the Long Knives 200,000 members by 1935 Ran the concentration camps Enforced racial policies

SD set up in 1931 by Himmler Gathered intelligence and monitored public opinion

After 1933, Civil Sevice Law: Judges could be removed for political beliefs Judges ordered to interpret the law according to

‘the will of the Fuhrer’

Control of the Media Ministry for Popular Enlightenment and

Propaganda March 1933 Josef Goebbels Reich Radio Company brought all broadcasting

under Nazi control Volksefpfanger (cheap radio) mass-produced

In 1932 only 25% of households had a radio By 1939 more than 70% had a radio

In 1933 there were 4700 daily newspapers By 1944 there were only 1000 newspapers Eher Verlag (Nazi publishing house) controlled

66% of the press by 1939

Control of the Media Ministry for Popular Enlightenment and

Propaganda Movies used, Swastikas everywhere Constant meetings, rallies, festivals

SUCCESS??? More successful in reinforcing already held views

than changing peoples minds Does work with the young and inexperienced.

Nazi policies toward women Kinder, Kirche, Kuche Employment was restricted

Excluded from civil service

Marriage encouraged From 1933, women who left work to marry were

given an interest free marriage loan (amount to be repaid fell 25% with each child born)

Women’s Enterprise (DFW) trained women in domestic skills By 1935 3.5 million women taken courses

Nazi policies toward women European birth rate was low, but especially

in Germany, so… Medals for prolific mommies

Bronze 4-5 kids Silver 6-7 Gold for 8 or more

Divorce was made easy for childless marriages Results

990,000 born in 1932 1.28 million born in 1937

By 1936, women were needed due to labor shortages (1943 they were conscripted)

Youth in Nazi Germany

Hitler Jugend was set up in 1925 By 1933 there were only 55,000 Other youth groups totaled 5-6 million 1933 all other youth groups closed, except those

run by Catholic Church, and absorbed into the HJ By 1939 82% of 11-18 year-olds in the HJ or the

League of German Maidens (for girls) 1939 membership was compulsory, but

attendance was far from perfect Boys were trained for war and girls for

motherhood

Education Main aim was to develop loyalty to the regime No emphasis on the individual 1933 Law for Restoration of a Professional

Civil Service led to a purge of teachers History and Biology lessons especially

became politicized Emphasis on physical education Eugenics (idea of selective breeding) was

introduced and taught

Nazis and Religion Catholic Church:

1933 Concordat with the PopeBishops had to take oath of loyalty to

Nazi state Nazis broke the agreement in 1936 by

closing down Catholic youth groups and monasteries

Pope denounced the Nazi regime in 1937 ‘With Burning Concern’

The Catholic press was closed down in 1941

Nazis and Religion Protestant Churches

Nazis tried to control from within 1933 Nazis won 75% of votes in Church

elections and their leader, Ludwig Muller, was made Reich Bishop

Church leaders opposed and established the ‘Confessional Church’ Its leaders were imprisoned

German Economy By 1933, Hitler knew he needed to tackle

economic problems (esp unemployment) Hitler ignored socialist elements of the

Twenty-Five Points and rejected SA calls for nationalization of industry (industrialists obviously liked this)

1936 New Plan Govt control of foreign exchange and trade

agreements Peasant farmers protected by tariffs and helped

by cheap loans and tax exemptions

German Economy cont What did Hitler do to solve unemployment?

1932 5.6% 1934 2.3% 1937 0.9% 1938 0.2%

Public works spending: New houses, planting forests

Expansion of car industry: Removed tax on luxury cars and cut tax on gas Autobahn

German Economy cont Cash incentives to women for giving up their

jobs Massive re-armament program after 1935 Re-introduced conscription in 1935 – young

men 18-20 no longer in workforce By 1937, there was actually a shortage of

skilled labor By 1938 GNP had risen to 80 billion from a

low of 44 billion in 1933 By 1939 wages had recovered to 89% of

their 1928 level

Four Year Plan (1936) Germany’s balance of payments (imports

and exports) was out of whack Hitler could not risk cutting back on food

imports, so decided to cut industrial raw materials imports (rubber, oil, iron)

Planned to produce synthetics domestically Overall the plan was not a success, though

rubber and oil production did increase By 1939 Germany was still importing 19% of

its food requirements

Rearmament Government spending in billions of Reichsmarks

1932 0.8 1933 1.9 1935 6.0 1938 17.2

1933 Germany had 100,000 army, no tanks, no warplanes, limited navy

By 1939 it had 1200 bombers, 980,000 army, navy was three times larger

66% of German industrial investment was devoted to war production from 1936-1939

Historical divide: Most historians say that Hitler was actually

only gearing up for a limited war (series of short blitzkrieg campaigns) that would allow Germany to exploit economic resources of conquered countries before moving on. USSR spoiled this when Germany got bogged down in a war of attrition with them.

Some historians point to the overwhelming percentage of spending on war preparation as proof of total war plans, and that Hitler miscalculated his invasion of Poland dragging all of Europe into war.

Opposition to the Nazis Came from many places:

Socialists Communists Working class people Church

Both Catholic and Protestant There was some slight opposition from within the

army, but since rearmament policies favored Nazi officers, it was few and far between (at least until middle of 1944!)

By 1945 500,000 Germans were in concentration camps for opposition

Why was opposition limited?

Over the years the Nazis became fairly popular due to: Propaganda Their results on unemployment and in foreign

policy

Organized opposition was eliminated 1933 political parties, trade unions, etc

Opposition was illegal and the SS and Gestapo inspired fear and terror

Foreign Policy

Goals: Lebensraum – living space Priority was to “fix” the injustices of the

Versailles Treaty (TOV) Commitment to the creation of a Greater

German Reich (or Third Reich…what were the first two?) and rid the country of untermenschen (sub-humans)

Foreign PolicyRevision of TOV Achievements in 1935: Saar region becomes part of Germany again Hitler reintroduces conscription and announces

rearmament

Opposition to Germany breaks down (known as Stresa Front):

Italy, Britain and France Britain signed Anglo-German Naval agreement in

June 1935 pissed off Italy and France Mussolini attacked Abyssinia (modern Somalia) in

Oct 1935 pissing off Britain and France

Foreign PolicyAppeasement: France and Britain Why?

Many felt harshness of TOV was unjust Bitter memories of WWI slaughter Britain more worried about Japanese expansion threatening

British interests in Far East French leaders felt France was too weak to fight again

without British help Many in France were more worried about Communist

expansion Economic problems of the Great Depression were more

important Britain and France knew they needed USA help in

confronting Germany, but US was practicing isolationism

Foreign PolicyAlliances: Hitler and Mussolini send troops to Spain to

help Franco in Spanish Civil War 1936-39 Germany continued trading with Italy during

Abyssinian Crisis 1935-36 even though League imposed sanctions on Italy

Rome-Berlin Axis friendship treaty Oct 1936 Hitler realized Japanese hated USSR as

much as he did and signed the Anti-Comintern Pact in Nov 1936

Anschluss Union with Austria (had been forbidden in

TOV) Achieved by March 1938 Hitler was actually Austrian Austrians “voted” (supervised by Nazis) with

99% in favor of union

Sudeten Crisis Sept 1938

rise and rule of single party state in germany 1918 – 1945: hitler and the nazis

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