Watch The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich

The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich is a gripping historical documentary film that debuted in 1968. It chronicles the rise and eventual downfall of Nazi Germany and Adolf Hitler. The film is based on William L. Shirer's bestselling book of the same name and is narrated by Richard Basehart. The documentary begins by painting a picture of Germany in the early 1900s. It highlights the country's economic struggles, political instability, and humiliating defeat in World War I. It then delves into Hitler's life, starting with his rise to power in the Nazi party.

Viewers are taken on a journey through Hitler's speeches, rallies, and propaganda campaigns that helped him gain immense popularity among the German people. The film shows how Hitler's aggressive foreign policies, such as the occupation of Czechoslovakia and Austria, resulted in the country's swift expansion, ultimately leading to the start of World War II.

It also explores the social and political factors that allowed the Nazi party to gain momentum and sway the public's opinions. The documentary shows how the Nazi's utilized modern technology, such as the radio, to spread their hateful and extremist ideas across the country.

The film also touches on the Holocaust and the atrocities committed against millions of innocent people, including Jews, disabled people, and LGBTQ+ individuals. It highlights the role of major players in the Nazi party, including Heinrich Himmler and Joseph Goebbels, in orchestrating and carrying out these heinous acts.

Moreover, the documentary examines Germany's military struggles as the war progressed, including the infamous Battle of Stalingrad, where Germany began its steady decline. It also explores the role of the Allied forces and their eventual triumph over the Axis powers, effectively ending the war.

Throughout the film, the audience is kept engaged by a mix of historical footage, interviews with experts, and commentary from individuals who lived through the events portrayed. The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich offers a unique and accurate portrayal of this significant period in world history. It serves as a powerful reminder of the danger of extremism and the consequences it can have for the world.

Overall, The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich is a must-see for anyone interested in learning about Nazi Germany and Adolf Hitler's impact on the world. It offers a deep insight into the social, cultural, and political factors that contributed to Germany's descent into chaos and the eventual liberation of Europe from Nazi rule.