Reconstruction

3.2.2 Reconstruction

Description

Quick Overview

This section outlines the key elements of Hitler's rise to power, economic policies, and ambitions for territorial expansion, culminating in the onset of World War II.

Standard

The section details Hitler's economic recovery efforts spearheaded by Hjalmar Schacht, the implementation of state-funded projects like the autobahn, and various foreign policy successes. It also discusses how these successes set the stage for militaristic expansion leading to the invasion of Poland, which ignited World War II.

Detailed

In this section, we explore Hitler's strategies for economic recovery and expansion as he rose to prominence in Germany. After facing significant economic challenges, Hitler appointed economist Hjalmar Schacht to enact a state-sponsored work creation program aiming for full production and employment. Notable projects included the German autobahns and the establishment of Volkswagen, which symbolized Nazi innovation and initiative. Following early successes, including the reoccupation of the Rhineland and the annexation of Austria under the slogan 'One people, One empire, One leader,' Hitler expanded Germany's territory by claiming Sudetenland from Czechoslovakia. These bold moves reflected both domestic and international support, particularly from Britain, which viewed the Treaty of Versailles as overly punitive. However, against Schacht's cautious advice against extensive rearmament, Hitler sought war as a means to recover from economic strife, initiating the aggression that led to World War II with the invasion of Poland in September 1939. This section lays the foundation for understanding the extent of Hitler's ambitions and sets the historical context for the ensuing conflict.

Key Concepts

  • Economic Recovery: Hitler used state-funded projects to revitalize the German economy.

  • Expansionism: Hitler's foreign policy was characterized by aggressive territorial expansion.

  • World War II: Policies led to international conflict beginning with the invasion of Poland.

Memory Aids

🎵 Rhymes Time

  • Hitler built roads with speed, for jobs and cars, they would lead.

📖 Fascinating Stories

  • Once upon a time, in a country that needed help, a leader built roads to encourage work and wealth.

🧠 Other Memory Gems

  • ROADS: Recovery, Opportunity, Autobahn, Development, Speed.

🎯 Super Acronyms

E.P.I.C - Economic Policies Initiating Change.

Examples

  • The construction of the autobahn helped create jobs, boosting the economy.

  • The Anschluss was a politically significant move that highlighted Hitler's influence and ambitions.

Glossary of Terms

  • Term: Hjalmar Schacht

    Definition:

    An economist appointed by Hitler to oversee economic recovery efforts in Germany.

  • Term: Autobahn

    Definition:

    A network of high-speed highways developed in Germany during the Nazi regime.

  • Term: Anschluss

    Definition:

    The annexation of Austria into Nazi Germany in 1938.

  • Term: Lebensraum

    Definition:

    The Nazi concept of 'living space', advocating for the expansion of German territory.