Following its defeat in World War I, Germany experienced its own economic depression during the 1920s. Germany's Weimar government, a democracy, was unable to relieve the 50% unemployment rate and faltering currency. During this time, a young Adolf Hitler, rose to power with support of other conservative parties; he promised to bring order and power to the German people.
Hitler won support of his country as he opened up jobs for millions of out-of-work citizens; citizens who could now work as soldiers or as civilians making weapons for warfare. During this time Hitler also attacked, isolated, and murdered all who questioned his authority and growing power, as well as all who were deemed a risk to harm German bloodlines: this included Jewish citizens, disabled citizens, non-white citizens, homosexuals, chronically-ill citizens, etc.
Hitler's goal was to re-arm Germany and expand its territory to all of Europe. Many Germans supported Hitler due to his economic revival of the country, his dreams of world leadership, and his charismatic speeches and propaganda. Twelve years after Hitler rose to power, however, Germany was left in another tale-spin of economic and national ruin.
1. How and why could millions of "normal" German citizens fall for the murderous antics of Adolf Hitler?
2. "Adolf Hitler was a great leader." What does this statement mean to you, and why do you agree/disagree?
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