Gleichschaltung Flashcards
(10 cards)
What does “Gleichschaltung” mean?
“Coordination” — the process of bringing all aspects of German society under Nazi control.
What was the aim of Gleichschaltung?
To eliminate all political opposition and ensure total Nazi control over government, culture, education, and society.
What happened to trade unions under Gleichschaltung?
Abolished on 2 May 1933 and replaced with the German Labour Front (DAF), which was controlled by the Nazis.
What happened to political parties during Gleichschaltung?
All parties except the Nazi Party were banned by July 1933, making Germany a one-party state.
What happened to state governments (Länder) under Gleichschaltung?
They were dissolved and replaced with Nazi-appointed Reich Governors to centralise power.
How was the civil service affected by Gleichschaltung?
Non-Nazi or “unreliable” officials, especially Jews, were purged under the Law for the Restoration of the Professional Civil Service (April 1933).
How did Gleichschaltung affect the media and culture?
Newspapers, radio, literature, film, and the arts were brought under strict Nazi control and censorship, overseen by Joseph Goebbels.
How were youth organisations affected by Gleichschaltung?
Independent youth groups were banned; all youth were encouraged or required to join Nazi youth organisations (Hitler Youth and League of German Girls).
What role did the SA and SS play in Gleichschaltung?
They helped intimidate and eliminate opposition, especially during the early phases (e.g. union suppression, political violence).
What event marked the end of the Gleichschaltung phase?
The Night of the Long Knives (June 1934), where Hitler eliminated internal threats like the SA leadership and consolidated power.
