HOW HITLER SEDUCED GERMANY WITH SPEECHES
Almost everyone finds it appropriate to consider Adolf Hitler a synonym of evil.
However, one wonders how Hitler gained popularity and support of Germans even though he
was wicked. A review of his speeches reveals that Hitler was exceptional in manipulating people
and good at using strategic propaganda techniques. Most importantly, he was conscious of his
skills, and he was quoted to have said, “I am conscious that I have no equal in the art of swaying
the masses” (Gigliotti, 2001). His success in moving masses is certain evidence that the Nazi
leader was accurate in his sentiments. The ability to deliver engaging speeches is an important
skill for anyone who needs to convince masses, and it does not matter who or what the speaker
is. However, the speech must demonstrate good knowledge of pressing issues that the audience
may consider important for an address.
Hitler knew what majority of the people wanted to hear. He largely focused on people’s
challenges in his speeches, and this helped to convince his audience that he would be able to
confront their challenges (Wistrich, 2001). For instance, he knew that preceding governments
such as the Weimer democracy had failed the people. People were not happy, and he used that to
his advantage (Wistrich, 2001). After taking over, he made it a point to appeal to burning issues
that pressed the citizens. He largely tapped his support by focusing on the negative feelings of
the people towards preceding regimes. For instance, in his early speeches, Hitler focused on
harsh terms of the Versailles treaty, instability of democratic governments, inflation, and the
position of Jews in the government (Gigliotti, 2001). Clearly, Hitler was largely able to move
masses by tapping into listeners’ emotions. He promised the people a future when they almost
despaired.
Dr. Joseph Goebbels, a close accomplice of Hitler, referred to him as a leader who
exhibited the ability to express issues clearly, directly and logically (Wistrich, 2001). Listeners
were even convinced that whatever he said was all they needed to hear. Many Germans had
similar views and visions to those of Hitler’s, but he stood out because he took the time to
illustrate the nature of the anticipated idealistic Germany. In his speeches, he maintained
consistency in his call for national unity, and he was aware that he would fail terribly without the
citizens’ support (Gigliotti, 2001). Occasionally, he held youth rallies throughout Germany
where he delivered speeches and expressed his vision for a better Germany. The youth trusted
and believed in their leader even though he acted contrary to whatever he said.
In summary, Hitler had exceptional skills in speech delivery. In fact, he wouldn’t have
won the confidence of the people if he lacked the ability to give a convincing speech. He knew
what his audience wanted to hear and remained focused. That way, he gained their loyalty which
made him a popular leader. Hitler would occasionally sweat when talking about sensitive issues,
his breath would become heavy, and his voice fluctuated. His audience observed his emotions,
and this made them emotional. His speech, therefore, was emotive to the extent of moving
masses. Germans were convinced that Hitler was their chosen leader largely because he focused
on the most sensitive issues. His emotions were also evident, and they rhymed with his
messages.
References
Gigliotti, S. (2001). Seduced by Hitler. Naperville: Naperville.
Wistrich, R. (2001). Hitler and the Holocaust. New York: Modern Library.
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