Key topic 4: Life in Nazi Germany, 1933–39 - 2 Nazi policies towards the…

The idea

The primary Nazi aim for the young was to indoctrinate them into loyal, obedient followers of Hitler who would secure the future of the Reich. Policies focused on controlling their free time and shaping their physical and ideological development. The Hitler Youth (HJ) prepared boys for military service through rigorous physical training, camping, and weapons handling, fostering aggression and discipline. Conversely, the League of German Maidens (BDM) prepared girls for motherhood and domestic duties, emphasising physical fitness to bear healthy children and teaching domestic skills. Membership in these youth movements became compulsory in 1939, effectively monopolising children's leisure time and undermining parental authority.

What earns the marks

• Explain the overarching aim to create a loyal, indoctrinated generation ready to serve Hitler and the state.
• Describe the activities of the Hitler Youth (HJ), focusing on physical fitness, military drill, and ideological indoctrination for boys.
• Describe the activities of the League of German Maidens (BDM), focusing on physical health, domestic skills, and preparation for motherhood.
• Note the timeline of control, culminating in membership of Nazi youth organisations becoming compulsory in 1939.
• Discuss the impact of these policies on family dynamics, as children were encouraged to prioritise the state over their parents.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Stating that the Hitler Youth was for both boys and girls.

  Put it right: The Hitler Youth was specifically for boys, while girls joined the League of German Maidens (BDM).

• Claiming all young people enthusiastically supported the youth movements.

  Put it right: While many did, there was growing resentment over the strict discipline, leading to the formation of opposition groups like the Edelweiss Pirates.

• Suggesting youth groups were only about having fun.

  Put it right: The primary purpose was intense ideological indoctrination and preparation for war or motherhood, disguised through camping and sports.

Exam tips

• Clearly distinguish between the aims and activities of the Hitler Youth and the League of German Maidens.
• Use the compulsory membership law of 1939 to demonstrate the escalating totalitarian control over young people.
• Consider the effectiveness of these policies by acknowledging both the successful indoctrination of many and the emergence of youth opposition.