Power of the Nation-State: Totalitarianism.

Essay by staplerkidJunior High, 9th gradeA+, December 2005

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World War One was the war of nationalism and ego. When World War One was won and over, Germany came out scarred and vengeful. With it's nationalism crushed and trampled on, Germany was forced to pay war reparations and given many new restrictions. Further north, in powerful Russia, there was a political stir as a revolt for a newer and better government began, which would create a new and more powerful communist party. Both of these troubled nations were united under their own inspirational leaders, Germany's Adolf Hitler and Russia's Joseph Stalin. Both figures reached power through overwhelming support and the death of more powerful figures. But when these powerful figures were in power, what they created was more disastrous and contrary to the individualistic beliefs. The nation-states of Russia and Germany in the early 20th century existed only to serve themselves.

Adolf Hitler rose to and held power through his overwhelming support throughout Germany's people.

A more accurate description of this could be described as his organized "eliminations" of any and all opponents that posed any threat to his power. The elimination of his opponents showed how he created and defended his totalitarian state. During his rallying of support of the German masses, Hitler made sure that his political opponents and dissenters were removed from power, one way or another. One very important obstacle that was removed from Hitler's way to great power was that of President Hindenburg. Although Hitler was not responsible for his death, Hindenburg's position as president was in the way of Hitler and his position of Fuehrer. Although Hindenburg's death should have meant a new President, but Hitler used this opportunity to unite his current position and this vacancy to center the control of power on himself, instead of letting others choose...