Start of World War II
Adolf Hitler became leader of Nazi Germany in 1933, at the start of World War II. He was seen as a charismatic figure with a uniquely vicious brand of politics and rhetoric, which quickly caught the attention of the European media. The world was shocked when he rose to power, as he had already proven himself to be a formidable dictator. From 1933 to 1945, Hitler and his allies worked to expand their power and influence throughout Europe, leading to devastating consequences.
From Austria-Hungary to Germany
Hitler was born in Austria-Hungary in 1889 and moved to Germany in 1913. His life before his rise to power was overshadowed by his failed dreams of becoming an artist, and a stint in the German Army during World War I. Following the war, he joined the Nazi Party and quickly rose to its leadership. By 1933, he was declared Chancellor of Germany, rising to full power the next year. With Germany under his control, he began a relentless campaign of oppressive laws and actions that led to World War II.
The Holocaust
One of the most notorious events of Hitler’s reign was the Holocaust, where an estimated 6 million Jews were systematically murdered. The Nazis targeted Jews, Gypsies, Homosexuals and political opponents, in an effort to create a ‘master race’. By 1945, the Nazis had killed an estimated 11 million people in concentration camps, using gas chambers, starvation, disease and other forms of destruction.
The Aftermath of War
The effects of World War II and Hitler’s reign are still felt today. With the destruction of millions of lives, historic cities and significant cultural artefacts, the world has been left with a deep-seated fear and resentment of dictatorship and authoritarianism. The United Nations was established following the war in order to help provide a platform for international peace and security.
Hitler’s Legacy
Hitler’s legacy has been subject to much debate over the years. While some see him as a madman with a thirst for power, others view him as a powerful, persuasive demagogue. In any case, his reign etched an indelible mark in world history, leaving the world in shock and disbelief.
Persecution faced by the Jews
The persecution faced by Jews during the Holocaust is still remembered today and has been the source of much research and study. Under Hitler’s reign, Jews were targeted for their ethnicity and stripped of their rights and possessions. This led to the deaths of millions of innocent people and the displacement of thousands of families. The horrors that were suffered will always remain in history, and the suffering of the victims will never be forgotten.
The World War II Allies
The Allied Powers during World War II included the United States, United Kingdom, and the Soviet Union. These nations formed a powerful alliance and worked together to defeat the Axis powers. The efforts of these countries throughout the war contributed to the eventual downfall of Hitler and the defeat of Nazi Germany.
Lessons Learned
The legacy of World War II has left us with invaluable lessons. While Hitler’s reign was brief, it caused a significant amount of destruction and loss of life. This tragedy has served as an example to the world of the devastating implications of unchecked power. It has also been a powerful reminder to all nations of the importance of standing up for justice and the preservation of human rights.
Opposition against Hitler
Hitler faced opposition from a variety of sources during his reign, including intellectuals, youth movements, religious organizations, and political parties. These groups attempted to keep the nation from giving in to Hitler’s totalitarianism and to raise awareness of the atrocities being committed against Jews and other persecuted communities.
Remembering the Victims
In the aftermath of World War II, millions of people were left homeless and displaced due to Hitler’s reign. To make sure that those who suffered under his rule are never forgotten, monuments and memorials have been erected throughout Europe to commemorate those who lost their lives.
Conclusion of the War
In 1945, Nazi Germany was defeated and Hitler’s dream of a unified Europe was shattered. Following his suicide in April 1945, Germany was divided into the four Allied Powers, and a process of rebuilding commenced. The legacy of World War II still remains with us today, and many are left wondering what could have been had Hitler not been allowed to rise to power.
