The Hitler State

The definitive work about the inner workings of the rise of the Third Reich, in an updated and extended edition. An overall history of German society during National Socialism.

Beginning with the regime crisis of 1934 that ended in the murderous Röhm uprising, Norbert Frei describes the political, social, economical and cultural development of the Third Reich. After the elimination of the political opposition on the left and right, the formative phase of the 'Hitler State' was over. Years of consolidation followed under the developing 'Führer Myth', and the 'People’s Community' was to a certain extent a reality. Throughout the country the effect of the war brought about a political, mental and moral radicalisation and led to a far-reaching 'cultural elimination'.

The book has been completely revised, adding new research, an extended section on the Resistance, a new chapter on the Holocaust and an enlarged collection of documents. An epilogue incorporates new research and gives special attention to the Goldhagen debate.

Press Reviews:

"This is currently the best introduction available for the internal history of the 'Third Reich'." Die Zeit

"Norbert Frei possesses a skill that only a few (German) historians have - he presents historical relations in a gripping and comprehensible way.... The book by Norbert Frei is something like a very reliable buoy."
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