Germany and the Second World War

This volume examines the war's impact on individuals in Germany, from soldiers to civilians, and explores societal responses to the regime and the Holocaust in Germany and the Second World War.

In Germany and the Second World War, Volume IX/I of this series delves into the profound impact of the war on individuals across various strata of German society. The narrative begins by exploring the role of the Nazi Party in shaping public attitudes and the complex relationship between German society and the Holocaust. It highlights the experiences of diverse groups, including soldiers, women, children, and slave laborers, all of whom faced the harsh realities of war. The book adopts a 'history from below' perspective, emphasizing how the ideologies of the regime influenced the thoughts and actions of ordinary people during this tumultuous period.

The volume further examines the social structures within military units and the ideological indoctrination that soldiers underwent, particularly after the pivotal battle of Stalingrad. It discusses the changing composition of the Wehrmacht as German workers were conscripted and replaced by forced laborers and concentration camp prisoners. The interactions between German civilians and these coerced groups provide a nuanced understanding of society's engagement with the Holocaust and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals.

As the war escalated, the home front experienced increasing air attacks, prompting a detailed review of the Party's efforts to maintain order and morale amidst societal disintegration. The book concludes with a discussion of various forms of resistance against Hitler's regime, both within the military and civilian sectors, culminating in the failed assassination attempt on the Führer in July 1944. Germany and the Second World War offers a comprehensive look at the war's human dimensions, revealing the complexities of life during this dark chapter in history.