The 'Hitler Myth' - A2 Germany

Kershaw's 'Hitler Myth'

This was the ideology held by a large minority of German's living in the Nazi Regime. Hitler was a 'virtual Messiah'

Why did the 'Hitler Myth' develop and gain credence?

• It was a reaction to the divisions and weaknesses of the old Weimar system
• It satisfied people's emotional need for a strong government
• It reinforced a German tradition of authoritative leadership
• It developed from the long established Fuhrerprinzip (leader priniciple) in the Nazi party
• It was sustained by Hitler's successes after 1933
• It was enhanced by propaganda

How was it conveyed?

• Through the powerful propaganda machinery led by Goebbels

Hitler was displayed as somebody who:

• Personified the nation and stood aloof…