Economic policy - position of workers

What did Schacht’s policies lead to?

A reduction in unemployment, which fell to 1.6 million by 1936, in part due to job creation schemes, but also the introduction of conscription in May 1935.

What happened as a result of the reduction in unemployment?

Many workers supported Schacht’s policies and the party.

What was the case although unemployment had fallen?

Workers lost many rights, as independent unions were banned and replaced by the German Labour Front or DAF (Deutsche Arbeitsfront) which was under Nazi control and the only option available to workers.

What did workers also lose the right to do?

Negotiate wages and conditions of work, which were arranged through the DAF, which supervising conditions and dealt harshly with unrest.

How did the regime attempt to win support of workers?

Through the ‘Strength through Joy’ movement (KdF or Kraft durch Freude) which offered workers sports facilities, cultural visits and holidays, but in practice these were only available to loyal workers.

Despite these problems, what were many workers happy about?

Happy to have a job.

What was the case with wages in 1938?

Real wages only surpassed 1929 levels in 1938.

How much did working hours rise from 1933 to 1939?

1933 - 43 hours.

1939 - 47 hours.

What happened to those working in consumer industries?

They struggled.