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Why?
Why?
Hitler Youth started out as a response to their social and political climate after WW1 in Germany. Germany suffered many losses like their land and money causing economic and political instability. Hitler was inspired by Benito Mussolini in his promotion of fascist youth groups and organizations for children to get them educated at an early age. These groups had the ulterior motive of preparing them for the future and for the military. They would cover up these intentions through athletics and other drills. This same strategy was taken up by Hitler, and he used it to create his Hitler Youth programs. Hitler believed that children should be obedient, swift, hard, and tough. These traits are supported by other key Nazi ideas. He also thought that it was of vital importance that the children of Nazi Germany were educated in Nazi beliefs and that they were physically trained and prepared for their future in the military.
Hitler Youth Boys
The Hitler Youth. Understanding Literature. (n.d.).
How?
How?
Youth organizations that promoted different ideologies existed, and Hitler built the Hitler Youth off the foundation of other groups and incorporated his own beliefs into the organization. Membership of this organization was promoted through laws such as The Law on the Hitler Youth that made it mandatory, propaganda created to appeal to both younger and older audiences through posters, pamphlets, and even coloring pages. Hitler Youth quickly gained popularity and the government was able to integrate the organization into the state's education system. Those who refused membership of Hitler Youth faced consequences; such as social pressure and shunning, fines, imprisonment, or the limitation of educational and employment opportunities.
Hitler Youth Flyer
Kater, M. (2006, April 30). Hitler youth — Harvard University Press. Hitler Youth.
Map of Nazi Germany
A is for Adolf: Teaching German children Nazi values. The Wiener Holocaust Library. (2021, January 18).
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