Treatment of Opposition Flashcards
(10 cards)
Who were the main opponents of the Nazi regime?
Communists, Social Democrats, church groups, youth groups, conservative elites, and some individuals within the army.
How were communists treated under Nazi rule?
The KPD was banned in 1933, its leaders were arrested, imprisoned, or killed. Many communists were among the first sent to concentration camps.
How did the Nazis suppress the Social Democrats (SPD)?
The SPD was banned, party members were arrested or fled, and their meetings, newspapers, and organisations were shut down.
What happened to trade unions under the Nazis?
All independent unions were abolished in May 1933 and replaced by the German Labour Front (DAF), under Nazi control.
How did the Nazis deal with religious opposition?
Opposing clergy (like Martin Niemöller) were arrested or placed under surveillance. Churches were coordinated under Nazi control, but some resisted passively.
What was the White Rose group?
A non-violent student resistance group in Munich, led by Hans and Sophie Scholl, who were executed in 1943 for distributing anti-Nazi leaflets.
Who were the Edelweiss Pirates?
Working-class youth who rejected Nazi youth values, resisted authority, and sometimes helped army deserters and escaped prisoners. Many were arrested or executed.
What was the July Bomb Plot (1944)?
An attempt by army officers, led by Claus von Stauffenberg, to assassinate Hitler and overthrow the Nazi government. It failed, and 5,000 were executed in retaliation.
How did the Gestapo deal with opposition?
Through surveillance, informants, arbitrary arrest, torture, and internment in concentration camps. Even minor dissent was punished harshly.
Why was opposition to the Nazis largely unsuccessful?
Due to the Nazi police state, widespread fear, control of media and propaganda, and lack of unity or coordination among opposition groups.
