The “Nature of the Nazi State” modern history lesson is a comprehensive introduction to the inner workings of the Nazi regime in Germany. This lesson plan provides students with an overview of the key organisations and institutions that defined the Nazi state, including the SA (Sturmabteilung), SS (Schutzstaffel), Gestapo (Geheime Staatspolizei), Wehrmacht (Armed Forces), and the infamous concentration camps such as Auschwitz.

One of the critical aspects of this lesson plan is the examination of the SA, which was initially formed as the paramilitary wing of the Nazi Party. The SA played a critical role in the rise of the Nazi Party and helped to establish the party’s grip on power in Germany. However, the SA was eventually dissolved by Hitler in 1934 following a power struggle within the party.

The SS is another key organisation that is discussed in this lesson plan. The SS was initially formed as Hitler’s bodyguard unit but grew to become one of the most powerful and feared organisations in Nazi Germany. The SS played a central role in establishing and running the concentration camps and was responsible for persecuting and exterminating millions of people during the Holocaust.

The Gestapo is another important institution that is examined in this lesson plan. The Gestapo was the secret police of Nazi Germany and played a critical role in maintaining the Nazi regime’s grip on power by suppressing dissent and opposition. The Gestapo was responsible for the arrest and detention of thousands of people, and the population feared it due to its reputation for brutality and terror.

The Wehrmacht is another crucial aspect of this lesson plan. The Wehrmacht was the German Armed Forces, which played a central role in the conquest of Europe and the implementation of the Holocaust. Despite its reputation for military prowess, the Wehrmacht was also implicated in many of the worst atrocities of the war, and its soldiers were responsible for the mass murder of civilians and prisoners of war.

Discussing concentration camps, such as Auschwitz, is a critical component of this lesson plan. Auschwitz was one of the most prominent and notorious Nazi concentration camps. It was the site of the murder of hundreds of thousands of people, including Jews, Roma, homosexuals, and disabled people.

Student activities in this lesson plan include discussions, a short film, research, and the creation of a storyboard. These activities are designed to help students understand the nature of the Nazi state and the impact that these organisations and institutions had on the people of Germany and Europe.

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