The Rest Is History 298: The Nazis: Total Power (Part 4)
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Jan 26, 2023 The ascent of Hitler from chancellor to dictator is scrutinized, showcasing the political landscape and the strategic moves he made. The Reichstag fire is examined as a pivotal moment that allowed the Nazis to enforce propaganda and suppress opponents. The discussion highlights the unsettling alliance between Nazis and traditional political powers that led to totalitarian control. Moral contrasts between Nazism and communism are explored, reflecting on how historical conditions enabled extremist ideologies to thrive and warning of similar modern threats to democracy.
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Torchlight Parade
- Goebbels organized a torchlight parade in Berlin on the evening of January 30, 1933, to celebrate Hitler becoming Chancellor.
- Though Nazis claimed half a million to a million attendees, the actual number was likely around 20,000.
Melita Maschmann's Nazi Appeal
- 15-year-old Melita Maschmann, later a Nazi propagandist, described feeling a fervent desire to belong after witnessing the torchlight parade.
- She was drawn to the excitement and perceived greatness of the Nazi movement.
Nazi Allure
- The Nazis' success stemmed partly from their appeal to idealistic young people.
- Many were drawn to the movement's spectacle and promises without fully understanding the political implications.
