Life in Nazi Germany Before the War: A Comparative Analysis of Ordinary Non-Jewish Citizens

Introduction to Nazi Germany's Impact on Daily Life

The period leading up to World War II saw profound changes in Nazi Germany, particularly for ordinary non-Jewish citizens. This article explores the significant differences between life before the rise of Nazism and the changes brought about by the Nazi regime. Key areas of focus include wage and price controls, economic planning, social policies, and public life during this transformative era.

Wage and Price Controls: Economic Planning Under Nazism

Before the Nazi regime came to power, the German economy operated under a more laissez-faire approach. Prices and wages were not strictly controlled by the government. However, following the establishment of the Nazi regime in February 1933, major economic policies were implemented to control wages and prices.

Initially, in 1933, wages decreased by about 50%, reflecting the broader economic challenges Germany faced during the Great Depression. However, within two years, wages began to rise again, indicating the regime's efforts to stabilize and bolster the economy. This policy demonstrated a shift towards state control over economic measures.

Control of Property and Luxury Goods: Central Planning and Party Connections

The Nazi government introduced strict controls over the sale of valuable property and luxury goods. Property such as real estate, furniture, and jewelry could not be sold without government permission, aimed at preventing capital flight and maintaining economic stability. This policy also extended to the import of luxury goods, many of which were limited due to the requirement to pay in hard currency, which was used to purchase necessary natural resources to support arms production.

Luxury items, therefore, became scarce, and access to them required party connections and special permissions. The central planning of agriculture saw an increase in pig and chicken farming but led to unexpected challenges. The distribution of eggs was centrally managed by the government, leading to spoilage and shortages in 1933 and 1934, which were significant issues in that era.

Community Service, Youth Organizations, and Ideological Control

The Nazi regime utilized community service and youth organizations as tools to enforce ideological conformity. Young people aged 17 to 18 were compelled to perform eight months of community service in the farming sector. Over time, youth organizations were either absorbed into the Hitler Youth or became mandatory, ensuring that youth participation in Nazi activities was widespread.

The production of films and theatre pieces increased, with censorship strictly in place to reflect ideologically correct themes. Interest earned on savings accounts was heavily taxed, fostering a sense of oppression and financial anxieties among citizens. Joining Party organizations and attending meetings became encouraged, even if not mandatory, to avoid social isolation and restricted job prospects.

Punishments for minor infractions also became more severe, with examples including spending two weeks in a concentration camp for failing to pay a parking fine. The harsh measures reflected the government's absolute control over the lives of its citizens.

Positive Aspects of Nazi Regime: Social Services and Public Health

Despite the stringent controls, some positive changes were introduced. Homeless individuals were provided with care, and food supplies, though limited, were abundant. Crime rates declined, with the exception of corruption, making the streets safer. Pensions, especially military pensions, were increased, supporting the elderly and veterans.

Public transport was expanded as part of a strategy to reduce private car usage and fuel demand. Higher education became more accessible to men, with quotas for women, but educational content was heavily politicized, emphasizing leftist ideologies. Healthcare was expanded, and working conditions in factories improved, leading to better hygiene, free meals, paid vacations, and other benefits.

Conclusion: A Period of Transformation and Control

The period from February 1933 to December 1934 marked a transformative era in Nazi Germany, characterized by radical changes in the daily lives of ordinary citizens. While the control of wages, property, and luxury goods, alongside strict ideological indoctrination, were prominent features, the regime also introduced some positive social measures aimed at improving the well-being of its citizens. The balance between control and improvement remains a significant aspect of understanding this complex historical period.