Was Nazi Germany a Totalitarian State? (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE History)

Revision Note

Zoe Wade

Written by: Zoe Wade

Reviewed by: Bridgette Barrett

Totalitarianism is a government that has complete control over its citizens

Arguments That Support That Germany was a Totalitarian State

An illustration showing evidence that supports that the Nazis established a totalitarian state
An illustration showing evidence that supports that the Nazis established a totalitarian state
An illustration showing evidence that supports that the Nazis established a totalitarian state
An illustration showing evidence that supports that the Nazis established a totalitarian state

Arguments That Challenge That Germany was a Totalitarian State

An illustration showing evidence that argues that the Nazis did not have a totalitarian state
An illustration showing evidence that argues that the Nazis did not have a totalitarian state
An illustration showing evidence that argues that the Nazis did not have a totalitarian state
An illustration showing evidence that argues that the Nazis did not have a totalitarian state

Worked Example

How effective was Nazi control over Germany? Explain your answer

10 marks

Partial answer:

In some ways, the Nazis did not have full control over Germany (1). Although many people were afraid to speak out against the Nazis, some people did publicly object to Nazi policy. For example, many Germans spoke out against the T-4 Programme that killed many physically and mentally disabled people (1). As a result of the public’s anger towards the T-4 Programme, the government publicly stopped the policy in 1941. The Nazis continued to secretly murder disabled people. However, the incident shows that the public could oppose  Nazi actions if they collectively challenged it (1). Therefore, this example shows that the Nazis still relied on public support to rule, showing that they lacked full control (1).

Examiner Tips and Tricks

A strong response for this Paper One question needs to examine both sides of the argument. The next paragraph would explain why the Nazis did have control. You could use the Nazi use of the Gestapo and concentration camps as evidence that the Nazis ruled by fear. Continue to use a clear PEE structure as shown above.

You would then need to write a conclusion explaining how effective was Nazi control over Germany. Remember to use phrases like ‘fully’ or ‘partially’ to explain how much control Hitler and the Nazi Party had over Germany. Consider how this level of control changed between 1933 and 1945.

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Zoe Wade

Author: Zoe Wade

Expertise: History

Zoe has worked in education for 10 years as a teaching assistant and a teacher. This has given her an in-depth perspective on how to support all learners to achieve to the best of their ability. She has been the Lead of Key Stage 4 History, showing her expertise in the Edexcel GCSE syllabus and how best to revise. Ever since she was a child, Zoe has been passionate about history. She believes now, more than ever, the study of history is vital to explaining the ever-changing world around us. Zoe’s focus is to create accessible content that breaks down key historical concepts and themes to achieve GCSE success.

Bridgette Barrett

Author: Bridgette Barrett

Expertise: Geography Lead

After graduating with a degree in Geography, Bridgette completed a PGCE over 25 years ago. She later gained an MA Learning, Technology and Education from the University of Nottingham focussing on online learning. At a time when the study of geography has never been more important, Bridgette is passionate about creating content which supports students in achieving their potential in geography and builds their confidence.