Reference no: EM133312165
Question: Hitler was often described as a savior of the German people in Nazi propaganda. Even the head of his propaganda ministry described him as if he were God. Joseph Goebbel's said, "I stand deeply moved before him...I feel something like happiness. Indeed, this life is worth while living. These days have shown me the direction and the way! In the midst of deep despair a star is shining! I feel drawn to it for ever."
Why do you think leaders like Goebbel would have this kind of reaction to Hitler?
Others referred to Hitler (or the Furher) as "the true Holy Ghost." Nazi youth were indoctrinated with ideas that had strong religious undertones. Party publications often equated Hitler with God and Christ--"If thou knowest one thing of a surety, it is this; thou canst tell everything to the Fuhrer, and he will always understand...thou canst not in anything deceive him, for he can see into thy heart...Where thou wast neglectful, the Furhrer has taken upon himself thy share of duty; where thou didst take thine ease he has borne thy share of toil and sacrifice...He is the soul of Germany made flesh."
Why would these ideas about Hitler resonate with the German people? Why would the Nazis target children with these ideas?
Opponents of Hitler were executed along with homosexuals, communists, blacks, mentally and physically disabled people, and especially Jews. How did Nazis justify their actions or did they try to?