Summary 8 - The KDF (Strength Through Joy)

Question 1

Give five aims of The KDF?

Answer 1

• Workers would gain strength for their work through joy in their leisure time.
• Indoctrinate workers to support Volksgemeinschaft
• Encourage social equality: all activities accessible for the rich and poor
• To break down regional and religious differences
• To encourage participation in sport to improve the nation’s physical fitness

Question 2

How did Strength Through Joy increase support for Volkgemeinshcaft?

Answer 2

KDF meant that the Nazis controlled people’s work and leisure time, therefore people had little time left for independent thought.

Question 3

What were workers offered as part of the KDF programme?

Answer 3

Workers were offered subsidised holidays, hikes and theatre visits. Classical concerts were put on during lunch breaks.

Question 4

How many members did KDF have by 1936?

Answer 4

KDF had 35 million members by 1936.

Question 5

How popular was KDF amongst workers?

Answer 5

KDF was extremely popular, it was one of the regime’s most popular organisations.