Terror and Persuasion Flashcards
What was the role of the SS?
Hitlers private bodyguard unit, they would wear black uniforms and intimidate people similarly as those to the SA, were thought to be prime examples of the Aryan race. By 1939 there were 250,000 members. After the Night of the Long Knives they became responsible in removing any opposition.
What was the role of the Gestapo?
This was Hitlers secret police force that was designed to listen in over phones and public spaces, look through people mail, and they wore undercover outfits to blend in with the general public. They had the ability to arrest anyone especially for political crimes. People would often snitch on their friends and family too as they were scared they would be seen as cooperating with the person who was committing the crime.
What was the role of the SD?
They only focused on serious threats towards the Nazi party and would remove anyone who was seen as a opposition.
How did Nazis control the legal system?
Judges had to become members of the National Socialist League for the Maintenance of Law, this meant that the law and sentencing was in Nazi favour. Judges had to be loyal to Nazis and wear a swastika and nazi eagle on their robes. If any sentencing was seen as lenient then Hitler had the power to extend the sentencing.
How did Goebbles spread propaganda?
Cinema, this was massively growing in popularity and many films were made to favour Nazi views and also spread antisemitic beliefs.
Radio, Hitler made sure the nazi message was spread everywhere through radios, it was the first thing that allowed Germans to listen to broadcasts from their own home so Hitler and Goebbles used this to their advantage.
Rallies, There were annual rallies like the Nuremberg rally and theyd host them on Hitlers birthday, this brought everyone together as a community and spread joy which connoted with Nazis
Posters, these were put everywhere as they would be easy to grasp and attract many, they would contain simple and direct messages
Books, books were carefully censored and monitored to fit Nazi views, many books would be written about Hitlers achievement and also antisemitic views.
