Hitler Enlists
In 1914, Adolf Hitler volunteered to serve in the Bavarian infantry regiment of the German Army. He was only 24 years old and had few interests in national politics, but he encouraged the patriotism stirring in Germany at the time and wanted to do his part. Hitler was soon sent off with his regiment, and was based in Belgium and France.
Hitler Wins Praise
Hitler performed well in his duty, and even distinguished himself as a message runner. He had a natural bravery that earned him respect from his comrades and superiors. As a result, Hitler received the Iron Cross, Second Class, from his regiment in August of 1914. Later, in 1918 he would be awarded the Iron Cross, First Class, which was a very rare honour for someone of Hitler’s rank.
Hitler Contracts Gas Poisoning
In October of 1916, Hitler was wounded in battle, and shortly thereafter contracted an ailment known as “gas poisoning.” He received treatment for this at a hospital in Pomerania, and then was sent back to the front in March of 1917. While there, however, Hitler was immune to the familiar euphoria of war, which he had felt when he first enlisted and was more impressionable.
Hitler’s Descent into Nationalism
At the same time, Hitler was nurtured in a new ideology – nationalism. This was a far-reaching ideal that changed the politics of the world after the First World War, and Hitler was among the first to embrace it enthusiastically. His involvement in the war, his heroism and his sufferings, gave him a great deal of credibility and respect in the eyes of German people.
Hitler’s Political Involvement
Hitler had a deep passion for politics. After the war, Hitler moved from Munich and began to plot his involvement in German politics. His experience in the war gave him a sense of purpose and determination, which he was able to channel into his political work. He began to establish the Nazi Party in 1920 and soon seized control of the German government, leading his country into a period of turmoil and destruction.
Hitler’s Impact On The War
There can be no doubt that Hitler’s involvement in the First World War had a significant influence on the events that followed. His experience in the war gave him a sense of national pride and patriotism, which he was able to channel into his political pursuits. His heroism and experience on the battlefield also earned him respect and credibility in the eyes of his fellow German citizens.
Hitler and the Treaty of Versailles
In addition to giving Hitler his political ambition and zeal, his involvement in the First World War also had a huge impact on the signing of the Treaty of Versailles. This treaty ended the war, but it also stipulated a number of concessions and restrictions for the defeated Germans, which Hitler greatly opposed. This opposition planted the seeds for his rise to power and ultimate destruction of the European continent.
Hitler’s Legacy
Hitler’s role in the First World War was an integral part of the sequence of events that followed. His military experience, combined with his nationalist beliefs, provided him with the tools he needed to seize power in Germany and launch a devastating campaign of destruction throughout Europe. His legacy, as we know it today, was shaped in large part by his experience in the First World War.
Hitler’s Involvement in Propaganda
The First World War was not just the beginning of Hitler’s political career, it was also the birthplace of modern propaganda. Hitler was deeply affected by this form of communication and utilized it prolifically in his speeches and writings. Even before the Nazi Party was established, he understood its importance and its power to control the people.
Effects of the War on Hitler’s Psychology
In addition to the political aspects of Hitler’s involvement in the war, his psychological state was also profoundly changed. His years of suffering on the battlefield, combined with his newfound nationalist ideologies, laid the groundwork for his disturbing and tragic future. He was driven by a seething anger and vengeful desire for power, and this was in large part due to his experience in the First World War.
Hitler’s Influence On Pop Culture
Despite the troubling aspects of Hitler’s legacy, his influence is still seen in popular culture today. From movies to television shows to video games, Hitler’s face and name appears everywhere, and his story is often used to tap into the emotions of the audience. This legacy, while unfortunate, is a tribute to Hitler’s resilience and lasting impact on the world.
Hitler’s Impact On The Idea of War
Finally, Hitler’s experience in the First World War played a role in altering the concept of war. After his reign, the idea of war changed from one of honor and courage to one of desolation and destruction. The idea of total warfare replaced the concept of a “war for glory,” and this realization was in large part a result of Hitler’s time in the military during the First World War.
