The Nazis' use of Propaganda
By: Jacob Wescott
Introduction
In the 1930s, Europe was in a state of transition. The Nazi party was gaining power in Germany with Adolf Hitler becoming chancellor in 1933. This shift of power from the Weimar Republic led to new radical policies causing the Nazi power to take complete control of the country. Europe was still in a rebuilding state from the devastating effects of World War 1, making it difficult for any other country to mediate Germany’s transition. Moreover, nations like the USSR and Italy also implemented new forms of government (Communism and Fascism).
Worldwide use of Propaganda
Although Germany used propaganda extensively during WWII, almost all countries involved in the war utilized it in some way. The importance of propaganda is highlighted by David Welch. “In modern warfare, propaganda is required to (1) mobilize hatred against the enemy; (2) convince the justness of one’s own cause; (3) enlist the active support and cooperation of neutral countries; and (4) strengthen the support one’s allies. Having sought to pin war guilt on the enemy, the next step is to make the enemy appear savage, barbaric, and inhumane.†(Welch 2017, xiv) Propaganda wasn’t just a minor tool used by each country. Propaganda directly influenced the public and could effectively shift opinions, focus attention, and gain support for the war effort.
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