3.2.2. Reconstruction

Hitler assigned the responsibility of economic recovery to the economist Hjalmar Schacht who aimed at full production and full employment through a state-funded work-creation programme. This project produced the famous German superhighways and the people’s car, the Volkswagen.

Hitler placed Hjalmar Schacht in charge of Germany's economic recovery after the hardships faced during the post-World War I period. Schacht initiated a program focused on creating jobs and boosting production. This led to the development of infrastructure projects, such as the construction of highways (the Autobahn) and the Volkswagen car, which became symbols of the economic revival. The goal was to reduce unemployment and revitalize the country's economy through state investment in large projects.

Think of a city needing improvement: if a government decides to build new roads and public transportation systems, it not only creates jobs for construction workers but also stimulates local businesses. Similarly, Schacht's policies aimed to create a better environment and condition for workers in Germany, leading to a stronger economy.

In foreign policy also Hitler acquired quick successes. He pulled out of the League of Nations in 1933, reoccupied the Rhineland in 1936, and integrated Austria and Germany in 1938 under the slogan, One people, One empire, and One leader. He then went on to wrest German-speaking Sudetenland from Czechoslovakia, and gobbled up the entire country.

Hitler's foreign policy was marked by aggressive moves that aimed at expanding Germany's territory and influence. His withdrawal from the League of Nations in 1933 signaled a rejection of diplomacy and collective security. Subsequent actions, such as the reoccupation of the Rhineland and the annexation of Austria (Anschluss), reinforced his image of strength at home. The slogan 'One people, One empire, and One leader' encapsulated his vision of unifying German-speaking peoples under Nazi rule, which further gained him support.

Imagine a person who begins to break rules in a club, asserting dominance until others start following their lead out of fear or admiration; this mirrors Hitler's aggressive strategy in Europe, where he tested the resolve of other nations and faced little immediate pushback, which encouraged him further.

Hitler did not stop here. Schacht had advised Hitler against investing hugely in rearmament as the state still ran on deficit financing. Cautious people, however, had no place in Nazi Germany. Schacht had to leave. Hitler chose war as the way out of the approaching economic crisis.

Despite initial economic recovery, the need for military expansion was a growing concern. Hjalmar Schacht, who advocated for caution regarding rearmament due to ongoing deficits, found himself out of favor with Hitler. Instead of maintaining a cautious approach, Hitler believed that engaging in war would not only bolster national pride but also resolve economic issues through territorial expansion and conquest.

Consider a business that is failing financially. Instead of making careful decisions to cut costs, the owner recklessly starts a risky investment campaign hoping for a major turnaround. This reflects Hitler's strategy, where he opted for war to address economic woes rather than prudent financial management.

In September 1939, Germany invaded Poland. This started a war with France and England. In September 1940, a Tripartite Pact was signed between Germany, Italy, and Japan, strengthening Hitler’s claim to international power.

The invasion of Poland marked the beginning of World War II, provoking Britain and France to declare war on Germany. Following initial successes, Germany's relationships with other Axis powers were solidified through the Tripartite Pact, which created a military alliance aimed at mutual support in expansionist efforts. This strategic partnership bolstered Hitler's ambitions of establishing dominance across Europe and was fundamental to the early successes of the Axis powers in the war.

Visualize two friends teaming up to tackle a challenging project together and then inviting a third friend to ensure they have more hands and resources. This is similar to how Hitler collaborated with other nations to increase his military might and enforce his aggressive policies across Europe.

Hitler now moved to achieve his long-term aim of conquering Eastern Europe. He wanted to ensure food supplies and living space for Germans. He attacked the Soviet Union in June 1941.

Hitler's strategic goal involved expanding into Eastern Europe for resources and territory, which culminated in the invasion of the Soviet Union. This decision, made during a time of seeming military invincibility, ultimately backfired. The German army faced fierce resistance and harsh conditions that marked a turning point in the war, showcasing overreach in military strategy as the Soviet Union proved resilient and capable of significant counter-offensives.

Think about a sport team that has been winning easily suddenly deciding to challenge a much stronger opponent without proper preparation; this is akin to Hitler's decision to invade the USSR, leading to heavy losses and setbacks after initial advances.

Meanwhile, the USA had resisted involvement in the war... The war ended in May 1945 with Hitler’s defeat and the US dropping of the atom bomb on Hiroshima in Japan.

Despite growing tensions, the United States remained neutral at the onset of the war, focusing on domestic issues. However, as the conflict escalated, particularly with Japanese aggression towards U.S. territories, America entered the war and played a significant role in the Allied victory. The end of the war saw Germany defeated, and the use of atomic bombs in Japan marked a dramatic conclusion to World War II, highlighting the intense changes in global military strategy and diplomacy after years of struggle.

Imagine a neighborhood where one household decides to remain neutral during an ongoing feud until they are directly affected, prompting them to intervene decisively. This reflects America’s later involvement in World War II, responding to threats after initially holding back.

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