This book looks at Germany between 1933 and 1945 through the structures and ideas that transformed German society during those twelve years.

It examines the Germany that was being built, the Germany that was being presented to its population, and the Germany that eventually entered total war.

The subjects include national identity, discipline, youth, industry, economics, architecture, transportation, science, medicine, Pervitin, culture, propaganda, Germanic mythology, the SS’s historical interests, Freemasonry, military organization, aviation, rockets, advanced weapons, and the final collapse of 1945.

The period cannot be understood through one subject alone.

It was simultaneously a political transformation, a social transformation, an industrial transformation, a cultural transformation, and a military transformation.

The regime presented this transformation as national renewal and unity. That presentation itself is historically important. So are the institutions through which it was created.

This book ask questions.

It asks.

How was unity created?

How was discipline created?

How did Germany reorganize its economy?

How were young people prepared for the future?

Why did ancient symbols appear alongside modern technology?

How did the state attempt to control culture and independent organizations?

How did German industry become increasingly oriented toward war?

These questions form the spine of the book.