Choose TWO of the following areas that the Nazis tried to implement their ideas: Increased Births; Improved welfare; Reduced employment; Reduced education; Involvement in women's organizations.
Using those two areas above, complete the following:
Area 1: Increased Bearths
Key Measures Attempted:
-Financial incentives
-improved maternity services
-Higher taxes on childless couples
-restriction on contraception info
-tigher penalties on abortion
-sterilisation of undesirables
-encouragement of births outside of marriage
Successes birth rate rose, but slowly declined (1933-1939)
Limitations and Failures: Eugenic policies limited population potential, growth may have been due to economic recovery not social policies.
Area 2: Welfare
Key Measures Attempted: National Socialist Welfare Organization, expansion of health offices especially in poor and rural areas (improved sanitation, preventative medecine, genetica and racial care). Improved child-care facilities, especially for working mothers.
Successes: Infant Mortality rates dropped. 1933: 7.7% 1936: 6.6%
Limitations and Failures: Welfare was closely linked to genetic policies.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
“Nazi policy for women was confused”
I agree with this to a certain extent. In the beginning it was not confused, because a woman’s only role was to be a mother/homemaker. However in the late 1930’s it became more confused, because the Nazis needed women workers, because the men were fighting.
“Nazi policy for women was a failure”
It was sort of a failure. Towards the end, the Nazis could have used women in the factories or as nurses or something, but their biases about women prevented them from doing that. But it was not all a failure because the birth rate increased from fifteen per thousand in 1933, to twenty per thousand in 1939.
I agree with this to a certain extent. In the beginning it was not confused, because a woman’s only role was to be a mother/homemaker. However in the late 1930’s it became more confused, because the Nazis needed women workers, because the men were fighting.
“Nazi policy for women was a failure”
It was sort of a failure. Towards the end, the Nazis could have used women in the factories or as nurses or something, but their biases about women prevented them from doing that. But it was not all a failure because the birth rate increased from fifteen per thousand in 1933, to twenty per thousand in 1939.
Nazi Youth Policies and Education Assessment
Using the green book, complete the focus task on page 204 (Nos. 1 & 2) that involves an assessment of Nazi Youth policies and education.
1. Hitler wanted to build a 1,000 year Reich, and to do this he needed children. The Nazis knew that children would be most easy to influence, so they tried to indoctrinate them at school. They knew that adults would be too hard to influence.
The Nazis did this using a number of methods. They changed the educational system so all the teachers were Nazis, and so that every subject in school was infused with Nazi ideology. For example, source 29 shows how the Nazis even put in propaganda into math text books. The Hitler youth also helped win over young people. Young people were encouraged to turn in their own parents for being anti-Nazi. As source 28 shows, the Nazis’ goal was to have control of people from their birth, until their death.
There were many reasons to be attracted to the youth movements (such as the Hitler Youth, and the League of German Maidens). According to source 36, there was a great sense of belonging, and being part of a great nation.
2. However, even though many young people loved the Nazis, some did not. Some young people resented and resisted being controlled by the Nazis. Some of these groups were the Edelweiss Pirates, and the “Swing” movement.
1. Hitler wanted to build a 1,000 year Reich, and to do this he needed children. The Nazis knew that children would be most easy to influence, so they tried to indoctrinate them at school. They knew that adults would be too hard to influence.
The Nazis did this using a number of methods. They changed the educational system so all the teachers were Nazis, and so that every subject in school was infused with Nazi ideology. For example, source 29 shows how the Nazis even put in propaganda into math text books. The Hitler youth also helped win over young people. Young people were encouraged to turn in their own parents for being anti-Nazi. As source 28 shows, the Nazis’ goal was to have control of people from their birth, until their death.
There were many reasons to be attracted to the youth movements (such as the Hitler Youth, and the League of German Maidens). According to source 36, there was a great sense of belonging, and being part of a great nation.
2. However, even though many young people loved the Nazis, some did not. Some young people resented and resisted being controlled by the Nazis. Some of these groups were the Edelweiss Pirates, and the “Swing” movement.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Was Nazi Youth Policy Successful
1. Responses to Nazi Youth Policies
-Enthusiasm: This source says that the youthes were very enthusiastic about the Nazis. They liked uniforms and the regimentation the Nazis offered. They are fanatical about Hitler.
-Conformity for career reasons: In source 14.35 it says that many young people think the will get jobs from the persecution of jews and Marxists. SOurce 14.37 is saying that young people are upset because they can't have the jobs they want. They were promised good jobs, and they believed they would get them, but they were let down.
-Conformity through fear: Source 14.36 says that some students lie about what newspapers their parents read at home, for fear of being persecuted. They don't their teachers to know that their parents are not Nazis. They just conform because they are afraid. Source 14.38 shows a young child being escorted by armed Nazis. This source shows that children conform to Nazis because they are afraid because they feel like they could be shot at any moment.
-conformity through apathy/natural obedience: This source shows that no one the author knows really cared about National Socialism, they only obey because it is easy to do.
-Noncomformity/disilussion: This source suggests that many young people are dissatisfied with the Nazis. They no longer go to Hitler youth meetings, and are bored with the regimented routine and the force-feeding of National Socialism.
-Criticism/opposition: Source 14.36 also shows that some young people fight back, by breaking Nazi prohibitions. Source 14.37 shows there are also other young people who are like the counter-culture. They write anti-nazi slogans on the walls of the subway.
2. Yes, the opinonian did change over time. In 1934 the Nazis still seemed new and cool. By 1935 young people were feeling pressure to conform and were getting tired of the same old ideology. By 1938 they were dissuliosend with National Socialism. By 1943 they were actually opposing the Nazis by deliberately breaking rules.
3. Neither of them are necessarily accurate. The SOPADE can't know all of the children in the country, so maybe only they people they see are disillusioned with National Socialism. But actually I think they are good sources, because the police probably were not lying, and probably not the SOPADE. They were just unbiased observers.
4. I think Nazi Youth Policy did work for a lot of kids, but not all. Some were content with the mindless-ness of the Nazis, but a lot of the smarter ones rebelled or at least questioned the Nazis. It was not completely effective, especially towards the end of the regime. There seems to be a lot of disagreement between historians. A. Wilt says that 95% of German youth supported the Nazis, while D. Peukert says during the war years there was a "massive opposition movement." K. Fischer says, "Nazi educational efforts as a whole turned out to be poorly thought out and lacking in substance."
-Enthusiasm: This source says that the youthes were very enthusiastic about the Nazis. They liked uniforms and the regimentation the Nazis offered. They are fanatical about Hitler.
-Conformity for career reasons: In source 14.35 it says that many young people think the will get jobs from the persecution of jews and Marxists. SOurce 14.37 is saying that young people are upset because they can't have the jobs they want. They were promised good jobs, and they believed they would get them, but they were let down.
-Conformity through fear: Source 14.36 says that some students lie about what newspapers their parents read at home, for fear of being persecuted. They don't their teachers to know that their parents are not Nazis. They just conform because they are afraid. Source 14.38 shows a young child being escorted by armed Nazis. This source shows that children conform to Nazis because they are afraid because they feel like they could be shot at any moment.
-conformity through apathy/natural obedience: This source shows that no one the author knows really cared about National Socialism, they only obey because it is easy to do.
-Noncomformity/disilussion: This source suggests that many young people are dissatisfied with the Nazis. They no longer go to Hitler youth meetings, and are bored with the regimented routine and the force-feeding of National Socialism.
-Criticism/opposition: Source 14.36 also shows that some young people fight back, by breaking Nazi prohibitions. Source 14.37 shows there are also other young people who are like the counter-culture. They write anti-nazi slogans on the walls of the subway.
2. Yes, the opinonian did change over time. In 1934 the Nazis still seemed new and cool. By 1935 young people were feeling pressure to conform and were getting tired of the same old ideology. By 1938 they were dissuliosend with National Socialism. By 1943 they were actually opposing the Nazis by deliberately breaking rules.
3. Neither of them are necessarily accurate. The SOPADE can't know all of the children in the country, so maybe only they people they see are disillusioned with National Socialism. But actually I think they are good sources, because the police probably were not lying, and probably not the SOPADE. They were just unbiased observers.
4. I think Nazi Youth Policy did work for a lot of kids, but not all. Some were content with the mindless-ness of the Nazis, but a lot of the smarter ones rebelled or at least questioned the Nazis. It was not completely effective, especially towards the end of the regime. There seems to be a lot of disagreement between historians. A. Wilt says that 95% of German youth supported the Nazis, while D. Peukert says during the war years there was a "massive opposition movement." K. Fischer says, "Nazi educational efforts as a whole turned out to be poorly thought out and lacking in substance."
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Nazi Education Policies
1. Identify three important changes made by the Nazis to the education system. Explain the purpose of each change.
A. teachers were pressured into joining the National Socialist teacher's League. Members had to take a 1 month course on Nazi ideology. This is was so teachers would teach the Nazi message.
B. Nazis also changed the curriculum so only their message could be taught.
C. Nazis also moved away from co-educational schools, so that each sex could get apporpriate education.
2. Give specific examples of how the Nazis tried in schools to develop the spirit of Volksgemeinschaft in the following seven goals:
Anti-intellectualism: According Source 14..16 there was no intellectual freedom and education was being degraded. Also in source 14.27 shows that Nazis did not like people reading, it calls an increase in readers a "crisis."
Anti-semitism: As source 14.23 shows, the Nazis tried to relate everything to how evil the Jews were. Every important historical event was somehow related to jews. Also source 14.24
Indifference to the weak: 14.21 The Nazis were trying to say that new homes are more important than human lives.
Nationalism: source 14.22 says that "the powerless and insignificant have no history. So it is basically saying that Germany is the best because it is a very old country.
Militarism: 14.20 says that every subject must be orientated to war. 14.26 celebrates Germany's warrior heritage.
Obedience and discipline: 14.17, if the Gestapo did not like a teacher, they could be arrested. 14.28 shows a lot of discpline too.
Hitler Worship: SOurce 14.18 shows Hitler worship, because every student was requierd to do the Hitler ssalute. Also 14.25 compares hitler to jesus.
3. What methods did the Nazis use to try to ensure schools were teaching correctly? (This is from Friday's in-class work.)
NSLB, fear & intimmidation
4. Write out a statement that explains the main educational aims of the Nazi Education System. (Reference some of the sources.)
The main goal of the Nazi Education system was to create the perfect soldiers. As 14.20 shows, everything was oriented towards war. So basically children were brainwashed into loving Hitler and wanting to be a soldier
A. teachers were pressured into joining the National Socialist teacher's League. Members had to take a 1 month course on Nazi ideology. This is was so teachers would teach the Nazi message.
B. Nazis also changed the curriculum so only their message could be taught.
C. Nazis also moved away from co-educational schools, so that each sex could get apporpriate education.
2. Give specific examples of how the Nazis tried in schools to develop the spirit of Volksgemeinschaft in the following seven goals:
Anti-intellectualism: According Source 14..16 there was no intellectual freedom and education was being degraded. Also in source 14.27 shows that Nazis did not like people reading, it calls an increase in readers a "crisis."
Anti-semitism: As source 14.23 shows, the Nazis tried to relate everything to how evil the Jews were. Every important historical event was somehow related to jews. Also source 14.24
Indifference to the weak: 14.21 The Nazis were trying to say that new homes are more important than human lives.
Nationalism: source 14.22 says that "the powerless and insignificant have no history. So it is basically saying that Germany is the best because it is a very old country.
Militarism: 14.20 says that every subject must be orientated to war. 14.26 celebrates Germany's warrior heritage.
Obedience and discipline: 14.17, if the Gestapo did not like a teacher, they could be arrested. 14.28 shows a lot of discpline too.
Hitler Worship: SOurce 14.18 shows Hitler worship, because every student was requierd to do the Hitler ssalute. Also 14.25 compares hitler to jesus.
3. What methods did the Nazis use to try to ensure schools were teaching correctly? (This is from Friday's in-class work.)
NSLB, fear & intimmidation
4. Write out a statement that explains the main educational aims of the Nazi Education System. (Reference some of the sources.)
The main goal of the Nazi Education system was to create the perfect soldiers. As 14.20 shows, everything was oriented towards war. So basically children were brainwashed into loving Hitler and wanting to be a soldier
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
How Hitler Got Away with Murder in NOLK
1. Find the sources on page 178. What reasons can you infer from each source (Sources 10.12 to 10.20) as to why Hitler got away with the Night of the Long Knives?
Source 10.12: THis law made the Night of the Long Knives legal, so no one could say that Hitler's actions were illegal.
Source 10.13: Hitler is explaining why it was OK that he killed people without having any charges. He is saying that he was protecting the German people, and he had to be the "supreme judge" and punish the communists and SA.
Source 10.14: This source shows that people believed that Hitler was protecting them, and that the NOLK was good for them. They thought he was cleansing the Nazi movement.
Source 10.15: Again, people felt the Nazis were being cleansed of evil-doers like Röhm.
Source 10.16: This quote shows that the army supports Hitler. It is very importnant for evil dictators to have the army on their side.
Source 10.17: This quote shows that the ordinary German was scared. After NOLK, people knew how powerful the Nazis were. They probably did not speak out against NOLK for fear of being killed.
Source 10.18: AT this point, Hindenburg was the greatest threat to Hitler's power. Hindenburg could still dismiss Hitler at any time (because he was president). SO it was good for Hitler that Hindenburg approved of the NOLK.
Source 10.19: A lot People supported hitler
Source 10.20: People were glad that Hitler "freed" them from the SA and the Marxists
2. Read page 179. Why was the Night of the Long Knives so significant in Hitler's consolidation of power? (Be sure to use specific details in your answer.)
Hitler conquered the Left and the Right. He killed the leftists (SA) in his party, and he had support from the elite (right). The army swore its allegiance to him. NOLK intimidated future opponents, and emboldened Hitler.
Source 10.12: THis law made the Night of the Long Knives legal, so no one could say that Hitler's actions were illegal.
Source 10.13: Hitler is explaining why it was OK that he killed people without having any charges. He is saying that he was protecting the German people, and he had to be the "supreme judge" and punish the communists and SA.
Source 10.14: This source shows that people believed that Hitler was protecting them, and that the NOLK was good for them. They thought he was cleansing the Nazi movement.
Source 10.15: Again, people felt the Nazis were being cleansed of evil-doers like Röhm.
Source 10.16: This quote shows that the army supports Hitler. It is very importnant for evil dictators to have the army on their side.
Source 10.17: This quote shows that the ordinary German was scared. After NOLK, people knew how powerful the Nazis were. They probably did not speak out against NOLK for fear of being killed.
Source 10.18: AT this point, Hindenburg was the greatest threat to Hitler's power. Hindenburg could still dismiss Hitler at any time (because he was president). SO it was good for Hitler that Hindenburg approved of the NOLK.
Source 10.19: A lot People supported hitler
Source 10.20: People were glad that Hitler "freed" them from the SA and the Marxists
2. Read page 179. Why was the Night of the Long Knives so significant in Hitler's consolidation of power? (Be sure to use specific details in your answer.)
Hitler conquered the Left and the Right. He killed the leftists (SA) in his party, and he had support from the elite (right). The army swore its allegiance to him. NOLK intimidated future opponents, and emboldened Hitler.
Nazi Rule in Germany
1. Study document A in Chapter 3. Make a detailed list of the kinds of people who were likely to be arrested as "Enemies of the State" in Nazi Germany.
Jews, communists/political enemies, the "work-shy," homosexuals, people who diss Hitler, Bibelforschers, actual criminals
2. Provide detailed notes on the following sub-topics in Chapter 4 (Jews in Nazi Germany)
Hitler's anti-Semitic ideas: Hitler believed that Jews were responsible for the defeat in WWI and that Jewish business men were plotting to take over the world. He also believed jews were an inferior race.
The dismissal of Jews from jobs, 1933: SA boycotted Jewish stores, Jews were sacked from every important job (civil service, law, universites, etc.)
The Nuremberg Laws, 1935: The first law made Jews no longer German citizens, the second prevented marriage between aryans and jews
The "Night of Broken Glass", Night when 10,000 Jewish shops were smashed and looted
1938 Violence against Jews: Homes & synagogues were burned, dozens killed, thousands arrested.
3. Why do you think Hitler and the Nazis put so much effort into organizing the lives of young people? (Chapter 5)
Because Hitler knew that the children were the future, so he wanted to indoctrinate them and make them loyal to him.
4. Study the photographs carefully in Chapter 5. Then, using the information and evidence you have read about young people, write a diary of one day in a Hitler Youth camp.
Herr Diary,
After the morning announcements today, we had a surprise 5km hike! What fun, knowing that we are making our bodies stronger in service for the Führer! We ate nothing but saurkraut all day. Tonight we are camping in the mountains.
Hansel
5. What effect did "the three Ks" have upon women. (Chapter 6)
Women in professional positions lost their jobs. Women were encouraged to have children, and thats it.
6. Study the photograph in Chapter 6 (2nd page) and read the rules of the National Reich Church. Explain in your own words the kind of religion which the Nazis wanted Germans to follow.
A Hitler-based cult.
7. How did Hitler address the massive unemployment situation in Germany when he came to power? (Chapter 7)
He Created the National labour Service, fired Jews and women, and rearmament.
8. What is the significance of the German Labor Front? (Chapter 7)
It replaced trade unions. IT abolished the limit on the number of hours people could work. The government had to approve of your job.
9. In your own words, discuss the significance of the Strength through Joy program. (Chapter 8)
Robert Ley believed that if people were happy, they would be better workers. The KDF organized sports matches, and vacations to keep people happy.
10. Describe Dr. Joseph Goebbels propaganda and censorship tactics. What effect did they have upon the German citizen? (Chapter 9).
Goebbels used the news paper, radio, and rallies to spread the Nazi message. Anything that was deemed harmful was banned: jazz, Tarzan, etc. German citizens could be executed if they said a Hitler joke.
Jews, communists/political enemies, the "work-shy," homosexuals, people who diss Hitler, Bibelforschers, actual criminals
2. Provide detailed notes on the following sub-topics in Chapter 4 (Jews in Nazi Germany)
Hitler's anti-Semitic ideas: Hitler believed that Jews were responsible for the defeat in WWI and that Jewish business men were plotting to take over the world. He also believed jews were an inferior race.
The dismissal of Jews from jobs, 1933: SA boycotted Jewish stores, Jews were sacked from every important job (civil service, law, universites, etc.)
The Nuremberg Laws, 1935: The first law made Jews no longer German citizens, the second prevented marriage between aryans and jews
The "Night of Broken Glass", Night when 10,000 Jewish shops were smashed and looted
1938 Violence against Jews: Homes & synagogues were burned, dozens killed, thousands arrested.
3. Why do you think Hitler and the Nazis put so much effort into organizing the lives of young people? (Chapter 5)
Because Hitler knew that the children were the future, so he wanted to indoctrinate them and make them loyal to him.
4. Study the photographs carefully in Chapter 5. Then, using the information and evidence you have read about young people, write a diary of one day in a Hitler Youth camp.
Herr Diary,
After the morning announcements today, we had a surprise 5km hike! What fun, knowing that we are making our bodies stronger in service for the Führer! We ate nothing but saurkraut all day. Tonight we are camping in the mountains.
Hansel
5. What effect did "the three Ks" have upon women. (Chapter 6)
Women in professional positions lost their jobs. Women were encouraged to have children, and thats it.
6. Study the photograph in Chapter 6 (2nd page) and read the rules of the National Reich Church. Explain in your own words the kind of religion which the Nazis wanted Germans to follow.
A Hitler-based cult.
7. How did Hitler address the massive unemployment situation in Germany when he came to power? (Chapter 7)
He Created the National labour Service, fired Jews and women, and rearmament.
8. What is the significance of the German Labor Front? (Chapter 7)
It replaced trade unions. IT abolished the limit on the number of hours people could work. The government had to approve of your job.
9. In your own words, discuss the significance of the Strength through Joy program. (Chapter 8)
Robert Ley believed that if people were happy, they would be better workers. The KDF organized sports matches, and vacations to keep people happy.
10. Describe Dr. Joseph Goebbels propaganda and censorship tactics. What effect did they have upon the German citizen? (Chapter 9).
Goebbels used the news paper, radio, and rallies to spread the Nazi message. Anything that was deemed harmful was banned: jazz, Tarzan, etc. German citizens could be executed if they said a Hitler joke.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Nazi Propaganda
Read Nazi Propaganda - Aims and Methods - Part 1
Using the information and the primary sources describe: (Pgs. 245-247)
a. The chief aims of Nazi propaganda
The chief aims of Nazi propaganda were to control the public, and to eliminate any radical elements in Nazi culture. Source 13.2 shows that the Nazis wanted their propaganda to spread into every area of life. The Nazis used propaganda very effectively to get their message across to the public. THe main aims of Nazi propaganda were to keep the population contented, and win support for particular policies. And also to indoctrinate the public with the Nazi world-view.
b. The means used to achieve those aims
The Nazis had various organizations to control the media. Such as the Ministry of Public Enlightenment and propaganda. The Propaganda ministry controlled directly or indirectly, all of the methods of communication. They set up the "Reich Chamber of ARt" which you had to be a member of to be an artist. The Nazis said what you could draw/ or paint. The Nazis also controlled who wrote newspapers, and the content of the newspapers. Since 1925 the radio had been state regulated.
c. Explain how the Nazis used the press, radio, and film as forms of propaganda. (Pgs. 247-253)
The Nazis had a policy called Gleichschaltung by which all institution had to conform to National Socialism. The Nazis controlled the content of the press so that only pro-Nazi things could be published. The Nazis used radio to a great extent as well. In source 13.11, Goebbels said radio was the most crucial instrument in indoctrination. All of Hitler's speeches were broadcast on the radio. The Nazis also used film, but to a lesser degree. Film was mostly used for relaxation. However by 1942 all film companies were nationalized. Only one-sixth of the 1000 feature films were overtly propaganda. Nazis also used photos to capture HItler in particular situations to make him look good.
d. Explain Goebbels' contribution to the creation and development of the Third Reich
Goebbels was very important in the creation of the third reich. He said that propaganda was the nazis' sharpest weapon in conquering the state. Propaganda was very important to the Nazis in winning support for their cause. He was an influential advisor to Hitler, and was instrumental in creating Hitler's persona and "selling it" to the public.
Read Nazi Propaganda - Other Methods - Part 2
e. Explain how the Nazis used the activities described on pages 254-259 as a form of propaganda.
Nazis used rallies to stir up people into "ecstasy" as source 13.24 puts it. Rallies created a mob mentality and a feeling of being part of "something greater." as source 13.24 says. Festivals also brought the community together to celebrate Nazi-themed holidays. The 1936 Berlin Olympics were very important to the Nazis. Hitler wanted to demonstrate the physical superiority of the Aryan race. The Autobahns also were propaganda. They showed how technologically advanced Germany was and how united it was.
Read Nazi Propaganda - Culture - Part 3 and Part 4
f. Explain how the Third Reich used painting, sculpture and architecture for propaganda purposes (Pgs. 260-270).
The Ideal Nazi painting was direct, clear, and heroic. Paintings did not portray reality as much as they portrayed the Nazi ideals. The healthy peasant, brave soldier, etc. "Hitler was portrayed as the wise and imperious leader." Painting was used as a form of propaganda to show hard-working Aryans. It was "art of the masses" reflecting popular taste. Sculpture was also used. In 1934, every new public building was adorned with sculptures portraying the Nazi message. Some art was deemed as "degenerate." This was art with unnatural-color, abstract or distorted forms, or unsettling subjects (anything that Hitler did not like). The liscenses of degenerate artists could be revoked. The Third Reich also used architecture for propaganda. Hitler loved architecture because it represented the Thousand Year Reich. Hitler called it "the word in stone" and his message could last for a thousand years because it was set in stone. Neo-classic styles were favored but in a huge scale. The Nazis wanted the individual to be dwarfed by the building, which represented authority.
Using the information and the primary sources describe: (Pgs. 245-247)
a. The chief aims of Nazi propaganda
The chief aims of Nazi propaganda were to control the public, and to eliminate any radical elements in Nazi culture. Source 13.2 shows that the Nazis wanted their propaganda to spread into every area of life. The Nazis used propaganda very effectively to get their message across to the public. THe main aims of Nazi propaganda were to keep the population contented, and win support for particular policies. And also to indoctrinate the public with the Nazi world-view.
b. The means used to achieve those aims
The Nazis had various organizations to control the media. Such as the Ministry of Public Enlightenment and propaganda. The Propaganda ministry controlled directly or indirectly, all of the methods of communication. They set up the "Reich Chamber of ARt" which you had to be a member of to be an artist. The Nazis said what you could draw/ or paint. The Nazis also controlled who wrote newspapers, and the content of the newspapers. Since 1925 the radio had been state regulated.
c. Explain how the Nazis used the press, radio, and film as forms of propaganda. (Pgs. 247-253)
The Nazis had a policy called Gleichschaltung by which all institution had to conform to National Socialism. The Nazis controlled the content of the press so that only pro-Nazi things could be published. The Nazis used radio to a great extent as well. In source 13.11, Goebbels said radio was the most crucial instrument in indoctrination. All of Hitler's speeches were broadcast on the radio. The Nazis also used film, but to a lesser degree. Film was mostly used for relaxation. However by 1942 all film companies were nationalized. Only one-sixth of the 1000 feature films were overtly propaganda. Nazis also used photos to capture HItler in particular situations to make him look good.
d. Explain Goebbels' contribution to the creation and development of the Third Reich
Goebbels was very important in the creation of the third reich. He said that propaganda was the nazis' sharpest weapon in conquering the state. Propaganda was very important to the Nazis in winning support for their cause. He was an influential advisor to Hitler, and was instrumental in creating Hitler's persona and "selling it" to the public.
Read Nazi Propaganda - Other Methods - Part 2
e. Explain how the Nazis used the activities described on pages 254-259 as a form of propaganda.
Nazis used rallies to stir up people into "ecstasy" as source 13.24 puts it. Rallies created a mob mentality and a feeling of being part of "something greater." as source 13.24 says. Festivals also brought the community together to celebrate Nazi-themed holidays. The 1936 Berlin Olympics were very important to the Nazis. Hitler wanted to demonstrate the physical superiority of the Aryan race. The Autobahns also were propaganda. They showed how technologically advanced Germany was and how united it was.
Read Nazi Propaganda - Culture - Part 3 and Part 4
f. Explain how the Third Reich used painting, sculpture and architecture for propaganda purposes (Pgs. 260-270).
The Ideal Nazi painting was direct, clear, and heroic. Paintings did not portray reality as much as they portrayed the Nazi ideals. The healthy peasant, brave soldier, etc. "Hitler was portrayed as the wise and imperious leader." Painting was used as a form of propaganda to show hard-working Aryans. It was "art of the masses" reflecting popular taste. Sculpture was also used. In 1934, every new public building was adorned with sculptures portraying the Nazi message. Some art was deemed as "degenerate." This was art with unnatural-color, abstract or distorted forms, or unsettling subjects (anything that Hitler did not like). The liscenses of degenerate artists could be revoked. The Third Reich also used architecture for propaganda. Hitler loved architecture because it represented the Thousand Year Reich. Hitler called it "the word in stone" and his message could last for a thousand years because it was set in stone. Neo-classic styles were favored but in a huge scale. The Nazis wanted the individual to be dwarfed by the building, which represented authority.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
How did the Depression Help the Nazis?
1a. Source 37: This source could support either. It is just showing that support for Nazis rose a lot from 1928 to 1932.
1b. Source 38: I think this supports Goebbels. It shows that people wanted the strength and unity that the NSDAP offered.
1c. Source 39: This is supporting Gordan. Many people already hated the Treaty of Versailles, so they might only support the Nazis because the Nazis wanted to abolish the treaty.
1d. Source 40: This source supports Goebbels. People really must have liked the Nazis if there were that many people at the rallies.
1e. Source 41: I think this supports Gordan. This source plays into the fear of communism, and the shared hate for it.
1f. Source 43: This source could go either way. It plays into people's hate for communists and the Weimar system, but it also is pro-Nazi.
2. Source 36: This source supports Gordan because people just wanted a change, and not be poor. They did not care who was the leader as long as there was some change.
42: That is Hitler
44: This supports neither because it is someone who does not support the Nazis at all.
45: I think this could go either way. Although some people support the Nazis, most are just united in hating the Weimar state.
Scale of 1-5 with 5 being you agree fully.
3a. Score: 3 Very few people fully supported the Nazis.
Explain your score: A lot of did fully support the Nazis, but I would say the majority just disliked democracy.
3b. Score: 5 The key factor was the economic depression. Without it, the Nazis would have remained a minority fringe party.
Explain your score: The nazis were a pretty unknown party before the depression. I think it was their big break.
3c. Score: 3 The politicians of the Weimar Republic were mainly responsible for the rise of the Nazis.
Explain your score: Although Hindenburg and Von Papen directly put Hitler into power, the Treaty of Versailles was also a major contributiing factor.
1b. Source 38: I think this supports Goebbels. It shows that people wanted the strength and unity that the NSDAP offered.
1c. Source 39: This is supporting Gordan. Many people already hated the Treaty of Versailles, so they might only support the Nazis because the Nazis wanted to abolish the treaty.
1d. Source 40: This source supports Goebbels. People really must have liked the Nazis if there were that many people at the rallies.
1e. Source 41: I think this supports Gordan. This source plays into the fear of communism, and the shared hate for it.
1f. Source 43: This source could go either way. It plays into people's hate for communists and the Weimar system, but it also is pro-Nazi.
2. Source 36: This source supports Gordan because people just wanted a change, and not be poor. They did not care who was the leader as long as there was some change.
42: That is Hitler
44: This supports neither because it is someone who does not support the Nazis at all.
45: I think this could go either way. Although some people support the Nazis, most are just united in hating the Weimar state.
Scale of 1-5 with 5 being you agree fully.
3a. Score: 3 Very few people fully supported the Nazis.
Explain your score: A lot of did fully support the Nazis, but I would say the majority just disliked democracy.
3b. Score: 5 The key factor was the economic depression. Without it, the Nazis would have remained a minority fringe party.
Explain your score: The nazis were a pretty unknown party before the depression. I think it was their big break.
3c. Score: 3 The politicians of the Weimar Republic were mainly responsible for the rise of the Nazis.
Explain your score: Although Hindenburg and Von Papen directly put Hitler into power, the Treaty of Versailles was also a major contributiing factor.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Jan. '33: Hitler is Appointed Chancellor
1. Why did Hinderburg's advisers agree to the appointment of Hitler as chancellor in January 1933?
They thought Hitler was a passing figure on the political stage, and that he could be tamed.
2. Why is the term "totalitarianism" used to describe Nazi Germany?
Because Hitler was the only leader. He got rid of parliament, and claimed the presidency after hindenburg died, so he was the total leader of Germany.
3. Why did the Enabling Law allow Hitler to overcome the constitutional restraints of the Weimar system?
It said that the National Cabinet could enact laws that deviate from the constitution.
4. What was the goal of Goebbels' Ministry of Public Enlightenment and Propaganda?
It basically was in control of every form of media and art, and anything that was considered "un-German" was banned or destroyed.
5. How did Hitler destroy potential sources of opposition?
He made it illegal to be a part of any party but the Nazi party.
6. Which laws served as the first steps in Hitler's plan to eliminate Germany's Jewish community?
Nuremberg laws on citizenship and race, law for the protection of German blood and honor, Supplementary decree on citizenship.
They thought Hitler was a passing figure on the political stage, and that he could be tamed.
2. Why is the term "totalitarianism" used to describe Nazi Germany?
Because Hitler was the only leader. He got rid of parliament, and claimed the presidency after hindenburg died, so he was the total leader of Germany.
3. Why did the Enabling Law allow Hitler to overcome the constitutional restraints of the Weimar system?
It said that the National Cabinet could enact laws that deviate from the constitution.
4. What was the goal of Goebbels' Ministry of Public Enlightenment and Propaganda?
It basically was in control of every form of media and art, and anything that was considered "un-German" was banned or destroyed.
5. How did Hitler destroy potential sources of opposition?
He made it illegal to be a part of any party but the Nazi party.
6. Which laws served as the first steps in Hitler's plan to eliminate Germany's Jewish community?
Nuremberg laws on citizenship and race, law for the protection of German blood and honor, Supplementary decree on citizenship.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
The Troubled Infancy of the Weimar Republic
1. Explain why several segments of German society never accepted the legitimacy of the Weimar system.
Mostly the far left-wing factions like the Communist party were not excepted into society. The were not accepted because they opposed the Weimar government and performed acts of terrorism.
2. How did Hitler use anti-Semitism to further his political aspirations?
Many people at the time blamed jews for Germany losing the war. Hitler's anti-semitism appealed to many people.
3. How was the French occupation of the Ruhr tied to Germany's hyperinflation?
The Weimar government supported strikers in the Ruhr by printing more money, which created inflation.
4. Describe "Weimar culture" and explain why many Germans rejected its values.
There were exciting advances in the arts, and Berlin replaced Paris as the unofficial center of European culture. Jazz became popular. Many people rejected its values though because of its more liberal attitude towards women.
5. How did the conflict between the Catholic Center Party and the SPD contribute to the political crisis of the Weimar Republic?
Because the Catholics and the SPD were the two main parties. So it created a lot of disturbance when they had conflicts. THe catholics tried to keep the SPD out of the cabinet and tried to limit the SPD's control of the government.
6. How did the economic depression that began in 1929 create an opportunity for extremist political parties in Weimar Germany?
Because of the depression, American investors felt investing in Germany was too great a risk, so they demanded that Germany pay its loans. This created a lot of debt in Germany. The government was deadlocked and could do nothing. Because of the ineffectiveness of the Weimar government, many people joined extremist groups like the Nazis
Mostly the far left-wing factions like the Communist party were not excepted into society. The were not accepted because they opposed the Weimar government and performed acts of terrorism.
2. How did Hitler use anti-Semitism to further his political aspirations?
Many people at the time blamed jews for Germany losing the war. Hitler's anti-semitism appealed to many people.
3. How was the French occupation of the Ruhr tied to Germany's hyperinflation?
The Weimar government supported strikers in the Ruhr by printing more money, which created inflation.
4. Describe "Weimar culture" and explain why many Germans rejected its values.
There were exciting advances in the arts, and Berlin replaced Paris as the unofficial center of European culture. Jazz became popular. Many people rejected its values though because of its more liberal attitude towards women.
5. How did the conflict between the Catholic Center Party and the SPD contribute to the political crisis of the Weimar Republic?
Because the Catholics and the SPD were the two main parties. So it created a lot of disturbance when they had conflicts. THe catholics tried to keep the SPD out of the cabinet and tried to limit the SPD's control of the government.
6. How did the economic depression that began in 1929 create an opportunity for extremist political parties in Weimar Germany?
Because of the depression, American investors felt investing in Germany was too great a risk, so they demanded that Germany pay its loans. This created a lot of debt in Germany. The government was deadlocked and could do nothing. Because of the ineffectiveness of the Weimar government, many people joined extremist groups like the Nazis
Monday, February 7, 2011
Unrest and the Treaty of Versailles
1. Using the information from Chapter 4, what were the threats to the new Weimar Republic? How did the Free Corps assist the government
The new threats were another communist uprising, and Bavaria in the south. The Free Corps helped to get rid of the communists in Berlin and Munich. In Munich, they burst threw the walls and ended the seige.
2. How did the Germans react to the Treaty of Versailles?
They were horrifed and angry. The wanted a fair peace-treaty.
3. Who were the "November Criminals"?
The politicians who signed the armistice
4. Read chapter 5. Why didn't Field Marshal von Hindenburg and the other general fight instead of having the Weimar government sign the Treaty of Versailles?
Because the Generals knew they could not win. They could maybe hold off the allies for a while, but they could not win.
5. What were the major aspects of the Treaty that caused Germans to object so strongly to it?
Germany lost all of its land west of the Rhine, some land was given to Poland, and Alsace Lorraine was given to France. Germany was also blamed for starting the war. Their army could not exceed 100,000 men.
The new threats were another communist uprising, and Bavaria in the south. The Free Corps helped to get rid of the communists in Berlin and Munich. In Munich, they burst threw the walls and ended the seige.
2. How did the Germans react to the Treaty of Versailles?
They were horrifed and angry. The wanted a fair peace-treaty.
3. Who were the "November Criminals"?
The politicians who signed the armistice
4. Read chapter 5. Why didn't Field Marshal von Hindenburg and the other general fight instead of having the Weimar government sign the Treaty of Versailles?
Because the Generals knew they could not win. They could maybe hold off the allies for a while, but they could not win.
5. What were the major aspects of the Treaty that caused Germans to object so strongly to it?
Germany lost all of its land west of the Rhine, some land was given to Poland, and Alsace Lorraine was given to France. Germany was also blamed for starting the war. Their army could not exceed 100,000 men.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
The German Revolution
1. Using the documents in Chapter 1 as evidence, list the ways in which conditions in Germany worsened during the war.
There was a lot less food, and people began to get sick of fighting. In the winter of 1916-1917 (the Turnip Winter), the potato crop was really bad and everyone had to eat turnips instead and potato-flocken. There was no coal, the electricity was turned off, and the gas was turned down.
2. Give two reasons why the war caused such bad conditions for German civilians.
1. Much of the food was redirected to soldiers
2. The British Blockade
3. After reading Chapter 2, give two reasons why Kaiser Wilhelm abdicated on November 10, 1918.
1. The country was breaking apart: Bavaria and Saxony set up their own socialist republics.
2. His generals refused to suport him
4. Using the information you have read in this chapter, give evidence to support the statement that there was "revolution all over Germany."
There was revolution in Kiel and nearby ports, as well as in Saxony and Bavaria.
5. Study the information about the German Socialists in Chapter 2, page 5. What did the three Socialist groups have in common?
They all wanted to improve workers' conditions, and give everyone the right to vote.
6. In what ways were the Socialist groups different.
The Social Democrats wanted to support the government and make changed throught the parliament. The Independent Socialists opposed the government and wanted to make changes by striking. The Spartacists wanted to overthrow the government, and then have soviets run the country.
7. After reading Chapter 3 make a time chart of the events of the German Revolution from Nov. 10, 1918 to Jan. 15, 1919. You should be able to find six events.
-Nov. 10, 1918: Friedrich Ebert tells Germans that they have freedom of speech and religion and people will be fed.
-December 1918: Sparticists held a demonstration, Ebert kills 16 people.
- December 22: A thousand sailors burst into parliment and hold Ebert at gun-point, demanding more pay.
-December 31: The Sparticists rename themselves the German Communist Party and plan a communist revolution.
-6 January, 1919: Te Sparticists begin their revolution
-10 January, 1919: 2000 Freikorps attack the German Communists in Berlin. THere was fierce fighting in the street for the next 3 days.
-15 January: Free Korps capture Rosa Luxemburg and Karl Liebknecht and kill them.
8. At what time would you say the Communists had their best chance of seizing power? Explain your answer.
Probably on December 22 1918. Maybe if they had helped the sailors and gained their support, they could have killed Ebert and taken over the government.
There was a lot less food, and people began to get sick of fighting. In the winter of 1916-1917 (the Turnip Winter), the potato crop was really bad and everyone had to eat turnips instead and potato-flocken. There was no coal, the electricity was turned off, and the gas was turned down.
2. Give two reasons why the war caused such bad conditions for German civilians.
1. Much of the food was redirected to soldiers
2. The British Blockade
3. After reading Chapter 2, give two reasons why Kaiser Wilhelm abdicated on November 10, 1918.
1. The country was breaking apart: Bavaria and Saxony set up their own socialist republics.
2. His generals refused to suport him
4. Using the information you have read in this chapter, give evidence to support the statement that there was "revolution all over Germany."
There was revolution in Kiel and nearby ports, as well as in Saxony and Bavaria.
5. Study the information about the German Socialists in Chapter 2, page 5. What did the three Socialist groups have in common?
They all wanted to improve workers' conditions, and give everyone the right to vote.
6. In what ways were the Socialist groups different.
The Social Democrats wanted to support the government and make changed throught the parliament. The Independent Socialists opposed the government and wanted to make changes by striking. The Spartacists wanted to overthrow the government, and then have soviets run the country.
7. After reading Chapter 3 make a time chart of the events of the German Revolution from Nov. 10, 1918 to Jan. 15, 1919. You should be able to find six events.
-Nov. 10, 1918: Friedrich Ebert tells Germans that they have freedom of speech and religion and people will be fed.
-December 1918: Sparticists held a demonstration, Ebert kills 16 people.
- December 22: A thousand sailors burst into parliment and hold Ebert at gun-point, demanding more pay.
-December 31: The Sparticists rename themselves the German Communist Party and plan a communist revolution.
-6 January, 1919: Te Sparticists begin their revolution
-10 January, 1919: 2000 Freikorps attack the German Communists in Berlin. THere was fierce fighting in the street for the next 3 days.
-15 January: Free Korps capture Rosa Luxemburg and Karl Liebknecht and kill them.
8. At what time would you say the Communists had their best chance of seizing power? Explain your answer.
Probably on December 22 1918. Maybe if they had helped the sailors and gained their support, they could have killed Ebert and taken over the government.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Stalin's Cult of Personality
After reading the two pages of material, answer the following questions.
1. Does the fact that images of Stalin appeared everywhere, as described by Steinbeck in Source 14.8, prove that Stalin attracted genuine adulation?
I think there were people who were genuinely brainwashed into thinking Stalin was a god, and having his pictures all over reinforced that idea.
2. Describe the various devices used to establish and spread the cult of Stalin.
First he tried to appear as a modest disciple of Lenin. Then as the cult got under way, there were more pictures of Lenin and Stalin, but Stalin would not usually appear in portraits by himself. Then during the First Five Year Plan, his portrait would appear more frequently and the History of the All-Union Communist party is published. His image becomes more all-powerful. At the height of the cult his image was everywhere and he was portrayed as a demi-god.
3. Account for the relative success of the cult - why do you think it worked with the Russian people?
The Russian people were used to having a Tsar to idolize, so Stalin was not much different. Also, many people felt grateful to him for giving them a better life and for industrialization. I think it also worked because children were forced into basically worshiping him.
4. What conclusions can you reach about whether the adulation Stalin received was genuine? Make notes of your answers.
Some of the adulation Stalin received was genuine. Many people actually adored him, as source 14.11 shows. Litvinov believed Stalin could perform a brain surgery if he wanted to. He believed STalin was almost super-human. However other people did not truly adore Stalin
1. Does the fact that images of Stalin appeared everywhere, as described by Steinbeck in Source 14.8, prove that Stalin attracted genuine adulation?
I think there were people who were genuinely brainwashed into thinking Stalin was a god, and having his pictures all over reinforced that idea.
2. Describe the various devices used to establish and spread the cult of Stalin.
First he tried to appear as a modest disciple of Lenin. Then as the cult got under way, there were more pictures of Lenin and Stalin, but Stalin would not usually appear in portraits by himself. Then during the First Five Year Plan, his portrait would appear more frequently and the History of the All-Union Communist party is published. His image becomes more all-powerful. At the height of the cult his image was everywhere and he was portrayed as a demi-god.
3. Account for the relative success of the cult - why do you think it worked with the Russian people?
The Russian people were used to having a Tsar to idolize, so Stalin was not much different. Also, many people felt grateful to him for giving them a better life and for industrialization. I think it also worked because children were forced into basically worshiping him.
4. What conclusions can you reach about whether the adulation Stalin received was genuine? Make notes of your answers.
Some of the adulation Stalin received was genuine. Many people actually adored him, as source 14.11 shows. Litvinov believed Stalin could perform a brain surgery if he wanted to. He believed STalin was almost super-human. However other people did not truly adore Stalin
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Purges, Terror and Show Trials
After reading the two pages of material, answer the following questions.
1.What is the significance of Kirov's murder? (This is what I went over in class.)
His murder gave Stalin an excuse to execute all of his political enemies. Kirov's murder was the beggining of the Great Purges.
2. According to Stalin, who had Nikolayev been working for when he assassinated Kirov? Why is this significant?
The Leningrad Opposition Center which had connections with the Old Left opposition. This gave Stalin a reason to arrest Zinoviev and Kamenev and give them long prison sentences.
3. What is a Trotskyite?
Someone who supposedly supports Trotsky. People would accuse each other of being "trotskyites," and you could be arrested by the NKVD
4. There are three major "show trials." List them and a brief description of their significance.
The "trial of the sixteen" included Zinoviev and Kamenev, and were found to be involved with a conspiracy to overthrow the governement. In the "trial of the seventeen" they were accused of having connections with Trotsky. In the "trial of 21" Bukharin and Rykov were killed. The trials are significant because it was Stalin's excuse to kill the remaining opposition.
5. During the Great Terror, there were three stages to the purges, staring with members of the Communist party. What were the next two stages and what type of people were purged?
The next two stages were the purges of the military, and the civilians. All of the admirals were purged and 3/5 Red Army Marshals. Many citizens were also purged, anyone who was accused as being a "Trotskyite" could be purged. Someone could be purged if they did not denounce enough people.
1.What is the significance of Kirov's murder? (This is what I went over in class.)
His murder gave Stalin an excuse to execute all of his political enemies. Kirov's murder was the beggining of the Great Purges.
2. According to Stalin, who had Nikolayev been working for when he assassinated Kirov? Why is this significant?
The Leningrad Opposition Center which had connections with the Old Left opposition. This gave Stalin a reason to arrest Zinoviev and Kamenev and give them long prison sentences.
3. What is a Trotskyite?
Someone who supposedly supports Trotsky. People would accuse each other of being "trotskyites," and you could be arrested by the NKVD
4. There are three major "show trials." List them and a brief description of their significance.
The "trial of the sixteen" included Zinoviev and Kamenev, and were found to be involved with a conspiracy to overthrow the governement. In the "trial of the seventeen" they were accused of having connections with Trotsky. In the "trial of 21" Bukharin and Rykov were killed. The trials are significant because it was Stalin's excuse to kill the remaining opposition.
5. During the Great Terror, there were three stages to the purges, staring with members of the Communist party. What were the next two stages and what type of people were purged?
The next two stages were the purges of the military, and the civilians. All of the admirals were purged and 3/5 Red Army Marshals. Many citizens were also purged, anyone who was accused as being a "Trotskyite" could be purged. Someone could be purged if they did not denounce enough people.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Kirov Murder Mystery
Examine the two pages of evidence in the Kirov Murder Mystery reading. After reviewing the evidence, make your own judgments by answer the following questions.
1. In what circumstances ti the assassin carry out the murder?
Kirov was on his way to his office when Nikolayev stepped out from a corridor and shot him.
2. What strange coincidences surround the murder?
Kirov's bodyguard was not with him at the time of the murder. The guards were not in the hall (they usually were)
3. Is there any evidence to link Stalin to the murder?
Kirov got more votes than STalin at the 17th party congress. He also opposed Stalin on a number of issues. Maybe Stalin wanted revenge.
4. Is there any evidence to suggest that the NKVD was involved in the murder?
Nikolayev told Stalin that he should ask the NKVD why he killed Kirov. An important witness, Borisov died in an "accident" right before the trial.
5. Who had the best motive for the murder?
I think the NKVD was most likely the culprits because Kirov opposed the purges, and Nikolayev implied it was the NKVD. But the assassination must have been approved by STalin first.
6. What theories can you suggest about who was responsible - was it the assassin alone or were others involved?
I think STalin wanted Kirov dead, and the NKVD were more than happy to oblige (because Kirov wanted to limit their power) and they just used Nikolayev as their pawn
1. In what circumstances ti the assassin carry out the murder?
Kirov was on his way to his office when Nikolayev stepped out from a corridor and shot him.
2. What strange coincidences surround the murder?
Kirov's bodyguard was not with him at the time of the murder. The guards were not in the hall (they usually were)
3. Is there any evidence to link Stalin to the murder?
Kirov got more votes than STalin at the 17th party congress. He also opposed Stalin on a number of issues. Maybe Stalin wanted revenge.
4. Is there any evidence to suggest that the NKVD was involved in the murder?
Nikolayev told Stalin that he should ask the NKVD why he killed Kirov. An important witness, Borisov died in an "accident" right before the trial.
5. Who had the best motive for the murder?
I think the NKVD was most likely the culprits because Kirov opposed the purges, and Nikolayev implied it was the NKVD. But the assassination must have been approved by STalin first.
6. What theories can you suggest about who was responsible - was it the assassin alone or were others involved?
I think STalin wanted Kirov dead, and the NKVD were more than happy to oblige (because Kirov wanted to limit their power) and they just used Nikolayev as their pawn
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Gulags and the Purges
Gulags and the Purges
The Gulag System
1. What type of construction projects were built using the Gulag system?
The Belamor Canal, and other huge construction projects when there weren't enough normal workers. They also used slave labor to work in conditions no sane person would work in, like the Kolyma goldfields.
2. What were the conditions of the work camps?
Terrible conditions, especially at the ones in Kolyma. The workers only ate bread and thin soup. The zeks also had to work 12 hour days with only two meals.
3. Why do you think slave labor was used in the projects rather than paid laborers?
It was less expensive.
Purges, Show Trails and Terror
4. What were the issues surrounding Kirov's murder? Why do you think he had been murdered?
His murderer was stopped the day before by the police with a revolver and plans to murder Kirov, but he was let go. Kirov's body guard was nowhere to be seen when he was killed. I think Kirov was killed because Stalin percieved him as a threat.
5. What was the Great Purge? What specific group did it target?
Members of the party who were in some way unreliable.
6. What was the purpose of the Show Trials?
The show trials were held to show to the public that anyone who opposed Stalin was evil. All of Stalin's former enemies were convicted, and made to confess to crimes they did not commit. They were probabley made to do this to ruin their reputations.
7. What was the Great Terror?
It was bascially when the purges went completely out-of-control. People in the armed forces were denounced as anti-stalin or Trotskyist, and also normal citiezens. Some people were arrested for not denouncing others. This created a state of constant fear.
The Gulag System
1. What type of construction projects were built using the Gulag system?
The Belamor Canal, and other huge construction projects when there weren't enough normal workers. They also used slave labor to work in conditions no sane person would work in, like the Kolyma goldfields.
2. What were the conditions of the work camps?
Terrible conditions, especially at the ones in Kolyma. The workers only ate bread and thin soup. The zeks also had to work 12 hour days with only two meals.
3. Why do you think slave labor was used in the projects rather than paid laborers?
It was less expensive.
Purges, Show Trails and Terror
4. What were the issues surrounding Kirov's murder? Why do you think he had been murdered?
His murderer was stopped the day before by the police with a revolver and plans to murder Kirov, but he was let go. Kirov's body guard was nowhere to be seen when he was killed. I think Kirov was killed because Stalin percieved him as a threat.
5. What was the Great Purge? What specific group did it target?
Members of the party who were in some way unreliable.
6. What was the purpose of the Show Trials?
The show trials were held to show to the public that anyone who opposed Stalin was evil. All of Stalin's former enemies were convicted, and made to confess to crimes they did not commit. They were probabley made to do this to ruin their reputations.
7. What was the Great Terror?
It was bascially when the purges went completely out-of-control. People in the armed forces were denounced as anti-stalin or Trotskyist, and also normal citiezens. Some people were arrested for not denouncing others. This created a state of constant fear.
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