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Opposition and Conformity in Nazi Germany

How far Germans resisted or went along with Nazi rule between 1933 and 1939: why most conformed, and the opposition of the churches and youth groups like the Edelweiss Pirates and the Swing Youth.

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What you'll cover

Opposition and conformity ✊

Between 1933 and 1939 most Germans conformed to Nazi rule, out of support, fear, or apathy. But some resisted. Protestants in the Confessing Church and Catholic leaders like Bishop Galen spoke out, and youth groups like the Edelweiss Pirates and the Swing Youth defied the regime. Real opposition was dangerous.

Words for resistance 🔑

Learn these four terms before you judge how far Germans resisted.

Conform or resist 🆚

Germans reacted to Nazi rule in very different ways.

Grade 9 thinking 💡

To reach the top grades, assess why most Germans conformed, and weigh the opposition of the churches and youth groups against the loyalty of the majority.

Match the group to what it did 🔗

  • the Confessing Church
  • Bishop Galen
  • the Edelweiss Pirates
  • the Swing Youth
  • Protestant pastors who spoke out against the Nazis
  • a Catholic leader who protested against Nazi policy
  • young people who mocked and fought the Hitler Youth
  • young people who listened to banned jazz music

Match the term to its meaning 🧩

  • conformity
  • opposition
  • apathy
  • Hitler Youth
  • going along with the regime
  • resisting or working against the regime
  • not caring enough to act
  • the Nazi organisation for young people

Why did most Germans conform? ❓

Why did most Germans conform to Nazi rule?

  • Many supported the Nazis, and others feared the police state.
  • The Nazis allowed free protest.
  • There was no propaganda.

Youth opposition ✅

Select the TWO youth groups that opposed the Nazis.

  • The Edelweiss Pirates.
  • The Swing Youth.
  • The Hitler Youth.
  • The League of Nations.

Why opposition was dangerous 🪜

An interactive activity.

Summarise opposition 📝

Most Germans _____ to Nazi rule, out of support, fear, or _____. Some Protestants in the Confessing _____ spoke out, and youth groups like the Edelweiss _____ resisted. Real _____ was dangerous because the police state punished it.

conformed apathy Church Pirates opposition support fear youth courts radio

Count the groups 🔢

An interactive activity.

Spot the two youth groups 🖍️

An interactive activity.

Conform or oppose? 🧭

An interactive activity.

Assess the opposition ✍️

An interactive activity.