Hitler and Nazi Germany Nazi control of Germany

Hitler and Nazi Germany Nazi control of Germany

Nazi control of Germany In today’s class, I am learning to: • Describe the use of fear to control people in Nazi Germany • Describe other methods used to gain public support

Nazi control of Germany From 1933 until 1945, the Nazis held control of Germany. They achieved this through various methods, including fear and propaganda.

Nazi control of Germany The Nazis started their rule of Germany by banning groups (such as political parties and trade unions) that might have opposed them. By the end of 1933, 150, 000 political opponents had been imprisoned.

Nazi control of Germany The Gestapo were the Nazis’ secret police. They would spy on people, often dressing up in ordinary clothes. The Gestapo also relied on denunciations (members of the public informing on people they knew).

Nazi control of Germany Germans lived in fear of being arrested by the Gestapo, who might turn up early in the morning to take people away, often then facing torture or death. As Germans were not sure who to trust, it made them less likely to say anything that criticised Hitler.

Nazi control of Germany The SS were known for their extreme violence. The organisation started out as Hitler’s bodyguards, but gradually increased their role and influence. The SS also continued to be used to provide protection for Hitler and other Nazis.

Nazi control of Germany The SS had a role in running many aspects of German society under Hitler’s rule. They were sometimes used to arrest political opponents, including using violence when doing so. The SS – often undercover – engaged in street fights, including targeting Jews.

Nazi control of Germany Concentration camps The SS were also in charge of concentration camps. At first people were sent to these prisons because they politically opposed the Nazis. However this soon changed with people being sent there for various reasons.

Nazi control of Germany Conditions in the concentration camps were known to be awful. Some people were subject to torture, and living conditions (such as shelter and food) were very basic. Germans lived in fear of being sent there, so limiting any anti-Nazi views.

Nazi control of Germany Eventually various other people hated by the Nazis – often called ‘Outsiders’ were sent to these camps. This included Jews, Roma (gypsies), asocials and gay people. During the war many of these camps were the scene of the Holocaust.

Nazi control of Germany Propaganda The Nazis also tried to build an image of Germany where everyone completely supported the Nazis. This would stop people opposing Hitler and his party because they would feel that they were the only ones that wanted to do so.

Nazi control of Germany The Nazis controlled German radio and ensured that broadcasts promoted Hitler; they often featured hours of his speeches. A scheme called the ‘People’s receiver’ ensured that 70% of German homes had a radio. Some workplaces played the radio too.

Nazi control of Germany The Nazis also were in charge of cinemas. Pro-Nazi adverts were played before films, and any movies shown or made in Germany had to be approved by the Nazis. Many films portrayed the Nazis in a positive light, or were very critical of other people such as Jews.

Nazi control of Germany Other methods of propaganda included posters and also controlling newspapers. Mass public rallies (such as Nuremburg) also suggested that the Nazis had huge support, as well as creating intimidation through the wearing of military uniforms.