Question 1: Describe the problems faced by the Weimar Republic.
The Weimar Republic faced problems from the start, including the harsh terms of the Versailles Peace Treaty, financial crisis, hyperinflation, occupation of the Ruhr by France, and the impact of the Great Depression. Constitutional irregularities and the perception of democracy as ineffective led to a loss of confidence in the Weimar Republic.
Question 2: Discuss why Nazism became popular in Germany by 1930.
Nazism became popular in Germany by 1930 due to the Great Depression, dissatisfaction with the Weimar Republic's handling of economic crises, and Hitler's promise of jobs, national dignity, and a better future. Nazi propaganda capitalized on the prevailing economic and political difficulties, making the Nazi Party the largest party in the Reichstag by 1932.
Question 3: What are the peculiar features of Nazi thinking?
Peculiar features of Nazi thinking include belief in racial hierarchy with Aryans at the top, viewing Jews as the lowest race, and the idea of Lebensraum or acquiring living space. Hitler's ideology emphasized the dominance of the strongest race and the pursuit of territorial expansion for Germany.
Question 4: Explain why Nazi propaganda was effective in creating a hatred for Jews.
Nazi propaganda created hatred for Jews by perpetuating stereotypes, portraying them as Christ killers and usurers. Hitler's pseudo-scientific race theories fueled the narrative, leading to violence against Jews. The propaganda aimed at dehumanizing Jews and justifying the eventual "solution" of their total elimination.
Question 5: Explain what role women had in Nazi society. Return to Chapter 1 on the French Revolution. Write a paragraph comparing and contrasting the role of women in the two periods.
In Nazi society, women were relegated to traditional roles of motherhood and homemaking, focusing on breeding pure Aryan children. This sharply contrasts with the role of women in the French Revolution, where they actively participated in movements, fought for education and equal wages, and formed political clubs. The French Revolution brought about a push for women's rights and societal changes, while Nazi ideology sought to confine women to restrictive and traditional roles.
Question 6: In what ways did the Nazi state seek to establish total control over its people?
The Nazi state sought total control through propaganda, using deceptive language, media, and imagery to spread their ideology. Mass killings were euphemized, and enemies were dehumanized. The regime presented itself as a solution to problems, gaining public support. Hitler's government manipulated information, controlled media, and suppressed opposition, establishing a totalitarian regime over the German people.