The Nazis promoted the idea of the Volksgemeinschaft (people's community), in which "racially pure" Germans were meant to work together for the nation. War tested this idea.
- Rationing and shortages: Food and clothing were rationed from the start of the war, and shortages grew worse as the war went on.
- Total war: After the defeat at Stalingrad in early 1943, Goebbels called for "total war," and more resources and people, including women, were directed to the war effort.
- Bombing: Allied air raids killed many civilians and left millions homeless. In July 1943 raids on Hamburg created a firestorm that devastated the city.
- Civil defence: Civilians were organised into air raid wardens, shelters and evacuation schemes, and propaganda urged them to keep going.
This deep dive covers Germany at War, 1939-1945 within Living under Nazi Rule, 1933-1945 for GCSE History. Revise Living under Nazi Rule, 1933-1945 in Component Group 5 — World Depth Studies for GCSE History with 14 exam-style questions and 18 flashcards. This topic shows up very often in GCSE exams, so students should be able to explain it clearly, not just recognise the term. It is section 7 of 19 in this topic. Use this deep dive to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Practice questions for Living under Nazi Rule, 1933-1945
Describe two features of the Enabling Act of March 1933.
Write a clear and organised summary that analyses how the Night of the Long Knives helped Hitler consolidate his power in 1934.