This podcast examines the three broad ways through which the Nazis secured control of Germany.  These are categorised as ‘the stick’ (repression and force), ‘the carrot’ (positive social and economic effects), and propaganda.

The first method of control outlined in the podcast is repression, which began following the Reichstag Fire in 1933.  The four key areas of repression are explained: Nazi control of the police and courts, the SS and the use of concentration camps, and the Gestapo.

Secondly, the episode explains how Nazi achievements were used to maintain support for the party.  Particularly achievements that ensured support included such things as assistance to farming communities (e.g. the Reich Entailed Farm Law) and more jobs and improved working conditions for industrial workers.  Middle-class support was secured through the removal of the threat of Communism.  Big-business was also very supportive due to being able to secure large government contracts, and the fact that trade unions had been banned by the Nazis in 1933.  Remilitarisation and large-scale public works projects also secured wide public support for the Nazis.

Thirdly, the podcast assesses the impact of propaganda on the German population.  An explanation is given of the role of the Reich Chamber of Culture, before describing specific propaganda achievements such as the effect of the radio, the use of films, and the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin.

The podcast ends with some tips on how to answer a question about Nazi control in Germany by explaining how the three factors worked together to support each other.