Fascism in the Interwar World

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions regarding fascism, its rise, and related historical events leading to the Holocaust as presented in the lecture.

Fascism

A form of political behavior marked by obsessive preoccupation with community decline, humiliation, or victimhood, accompanied by a mass-based party of committed nationalist militants.

Interwar era

The period between World War I and World War II characterized by global crises, including economic, political, and intellectual crises.

Nazi Dictatorship

The authoritarian regime established by Adolf Hitler that dismantled Germany's constitutional order and suppressed civil liberties.

Reichstag Fire Decree

A decree enacted by the Nazi government that limited civil liberties and allowed the government to act without legislative approval.

Nuremberg Laws

Legislation enacted in Nazi Germany that established legal definitions for Jews and prohibited marriages between Jews and non-Jews.

Great Depression

A severe worldwide economic downturn that began in 1929 and severely impacted Germany, leading to high unemployment and political instability.

Totalitarian control

The complete control of a state by a political regime over all aspects of public and private life.

Book burnings

A campaign led by the Nazi regime to destroy literature that was considered 'degenerate' or contrary to their ideology.

T4 program

A Nazi initiative that resulted in the euthanasia of individuals with mental and physical disabilities.

Fascism warning signs

Signs of fascism include powerful nationalism, disdain for human rights, and suppression of labor power.

Antisemitism

Prejudice against Jewish people, which was a significant aspect of Nazi ideology.

Cult of unity

A compulsion to create a sense of unity among people, often used in fascist contexts to strengthen national identity.