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"Terror was more important than propaganda in controlling people in Nazi Germany between 1933 and 1939.' How far do you agree with this view? - OCR Gateway - GCSE History - Question 8 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 8
"Terror was more important than propaganda in controlling people in Nazi Germany between 1933 and 1939.' How far do you agree with this view?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:"Terror was more important than propaganda in controlling people in Nazi Germany between 1933 and 1939.' How far do you agree with this view? - OCR Gateway - GCSE History - Question 8 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Introduction to the Argument
Answer
In assessing whether terror was more important than propaganda in controlling the populace of Nazi Germany, one must examine the roles both elements played in the regime's overall control strategy. Terror, initiated through violent repression and fear tactics, served to eliminate opposition and dissent, while propaganda worked to shape public perception and loyalty to the regime. Both played critical roles, but this evaluation will argue that terror had a more immediate and profound effect on controlling the population.
Step 2
Evaluation of Terror as a Control Method
Answer
Terror was implemented extensively through state mechanisms such as the Gestapo and concentration camps. The systematic violence against perceived enemies, including political dissidents, Jews, and other minority groups, functioned to instill fear and compliance among the general populace. The Night of the Long Knives in 1934 exemplified how the regime used terror to eliminate opposition from within its ranks, thereby consolidating power. The fear cultivated by such events served to deter dissent and maintain control.
Step 3
The Role of Propaganda
Answer
While propaganda was crucial for fostering a positive image of the regime and promoting Nazi ideology, it functioned mostly as a means of persuasion rather than coercion. Campaigns such as the Nuremberg Rallies served to rally public support and create a sense of community under the Nazi banner. However, propaganda was secondary to the function of fear in controlling behaviors directly, as it could not replace the immediate effects of terror.
Step 4
Discussion of the Interrelationship
Answer
Terror and propaganda were not mutually exclusive; rather, they complemented each other. Propaganda aimed to justify the regime’s actions, including the use of terror. For instance, anti-Semitic propaganda portrayed Jews as threats to societal stability, which rationalized the violent repression against them. Thus, while propaganda aided the regime's long-term goals, it was ultimately the terror that controlled individuals' actions in their daily lives.
Step 5
Conclusion
Answer
In conclusion, while propaganda played an important role in shaping the public narrative and supporting Nazi ideology, the immediate and oppressive influence of terror was more significant in controlling the populace between 1933 and 1939. The environment of fear created by terror stifled dissent and ensured compliance, establishing a reality that propaganda alone could not achieve.