Ep 2. Terror of Nazi Propaganda

Forbidden History is a captivating historical documentary-style show that delves into mysteries and hidden stories of the past, exploring legends and theories that have been dismissed or overlooked by mainstream historians. Season 7 in particular takes a closer look into the conspiracies and propaganda that have shaped the modern world.

In episode 2 of season 7 titled "Terror of Nazi Propaganda," the show explores the power of propaganda during the Third Reich in Nazi Germany. During this time, the Nazi party utilized propaganda to manipulate the public into supporting their cause, as well as to instill fear and obedience in the population.

The episode begins with a look into Nazi filmmaker Leni Riefenstahl's propaganda films, which were carefully crafted to glorify the Aryan race and showcase the strength and power of the Nazi regime. The documentary analyzes her iconic film, "Triumph of the Will," which was made to commemorate the Nazi party's 1934 rally in Nuremberg.

The show then moves on to explore the more insidious aspects of Nazi propaganda, such as the use of fear-mongering and hate speech. The Nazi regime used posters, speeches, and rallies to spread their ideology and portray Jews, homosexuals, Romani people, and other marginalized groups as subhuman and inferior. Through this propaganda, the regime was able to dull the public's sense of compassion, making it easier for them to accept the Nazi regime's increasingly violent policies.

The episode also delves into the role that technology played in spreading Nazi propaganda. The development of radio and mass media allowed the regime to disseminate its messages to a wider audience, as well as to create targeted campaigns aimed at specific groups of people.

One of the most powerful sections of the episode is a discussion on the Wochenschau, or weekly newsreels, produced by the Nazi regime. These newsreels were shown in movie theaters throughout Germany and featured both real and staged events that helped to shape public opinion. The documentary also examines how Nazi propaganda influenced other countries, including Great Britain, the United States, and the Soviet Union.

Throughout the episode, the show's experts analyze and contextualize historical footage, placing it within the broader social and political context of the time. They also provide commentary on how the propaganda machine was able to manipulate large swathes of the German population into supporting or turning a blind eye to the atrocities being committed by the Nazi regime.

Overall, "Terror of Nazi Propaganda" offers a thought-provoking look into the power of propaganda and the dangers it can pose when employed by those in power. The documentary provides an insightful analysis of the Nazi regime's propaganda machine and its impact on both Germany and the world at large.