The Nazi regime maintained control over Germany through terror and propaganda.
This lecture focuses on terror; the next will focus on propaganda.
The Role of Heinrich Himmler
Heinrich Himmler was central to the Nazi system of fear and control.
He led the SS (Schutzstaffel) and was influential in the entire terror network.
Himmler’s quote: "The best political weapon is the weapon of terror. Cruelty commands respect. Men may hate us, but we don't ask for their love, only their fear."
The Machinery of Terror
Comprised seven elements functioning together like cogs in a machine.
1. The SS (Schutzstaffel)
Elite Nazi army known as "black shirts" with black uniforms.
In 1933, had 52,000 members compared to the SA's 300,000.
Gained significant power post-Night of the Long Knives.
Controlled concentration camps and the German police after 1936.
2. The SD (Sicherheitsdienst)
Nazi secret service, eyes and ears of the SS.
Led by Reinhard Heydrich, notorious for his cruelty.
Identified enemies of the Nazi regime through informants.
3. The Gestapo
Secret police capable of arresting/imprisoning opponents of Nazi rule.
Involved in targeting Jews, homosexuals, and religious opponents post-1936.
Despite small numbers (15,000), instilled widespread fear.
4. Informers
Ordinary citizens and official informers called block wardens spied on the public.
5. Ordinary Police
Ordinary police supported Nazi regime; controlled by SS from 1936.
Assisted in intelligence gathering and arrests.
6. Judges and Courts
Courts under Nazi control; severe laws increased death penalty offenses from 3 to 46 by 1943.
People’s Court issued many of the death sentences without a jury.
7. Concentration Camps
Used to imprison political opponents, initially focused on these rather than Jews.
Harsh conditions and punishments; managed by SS Death’s Head Units.
Conclusion
The combined machinery of terror effectively instilled fear in the German populace, facilitating Nazi control.