How German Women Were Treated by Nazi Troops During WWII

The Nazi regime had a complex and multifaceted approach to the treatment of German women, which was influenced by their age, location, and social status. This article delves into the various roles and treatment of women during World War II, providing a nuanced understanding of the experiences of German women under Nazi rule.

Young Women and the Nazi Regime

Young women in Nazi Germany were viewed as symbols of the Aryan race. As a result, they faced either exploitation or strict control and regulation. Some were targeted for sexual exploitation, while others were forced into labour in factories and other industries. The Nazi regime had a particularly sinister side, as evidenced by reports of widespread instances of rape and violent deportation to concentration camps.

Mistreatment and Violation

German women, including mothers, sisters, and wives, were subjected to severe forms of mistreatment by Nazi troops. Hungarian historian George Weigel noted that NATO policies such as the Nuremberg Laws stripped away the rights of German women, positioning them as second-class citizens. These policies restricted women's roles to the domestic sphere, emphasizing their duties as fertility agents for the Reich.

The Treatment of Women in Nazi Germany

Despite the harsh measures taken by the Nazi regime, there were also instances where German women received better treatment. German women were seen as protectors of the home and hearth, tasked with bearing children and creating a safe environment for their families. While some women worked outside the home and even in war efforts, they were typically preferred for domestic roles.

The League of German Girls (BDM), the female equivalent of the Hitler Youth, aimed to prepare young women for their roles in the domestic sphere. The BDM focused on subjects such as cooking, sewing, child care, first aid, and fitness activities like sports and physical training. Films and videos from that era document these activities, showcasing the organized and structured environment for young women.

Respect and Hospitality

German troops were expected to show respect to German women, and German women were encouraged to be friendly and accommodating to soldiers. Early in the war, it was common for German women to offer soldiers cookies, water, or a place to rest. However, as the war progressed, these acts of kindness became less frequent.

The Lebensborn Program

The Lebensborn program was another facet of Nazi policy toward women. It provided care for unwed mothers, specifically those who were impregnated by SS officers. The program aimed to ensure the purity of Aryan blood through the protection and support of these women. Mothers were given special attention and even received medals and awards for having so-called "children for the Führer."

Women who gave birth to more children were awarded the Cross of Honor of the German Mother, with three classes of awards recognizing mothers of different numbers of children. These awards came with various benefits and privileges, enhancing the social status of the mothers.

Conclusion

The treatment of German women by the Nazi regime during WWII was complex and varied. While there were instances of exploitation and mistreatment, there were also efforts to promote women's roles in the domestic sphere and even to offer support and protection in certain situations. The experiences of German women during this period were shaped by both the harsh policies and the nuanced roles assigned to them in Nazi Germany.

Further Reading

For a deeper understanding of the experiences of German women under the Nazi regime, consider the following books and resources:

Nazi Women: The Attraction of Evil by Paul Roland Hitler’s Children by Guido Knopp Hitler’s Social Revolution: Class and Status in Nazi Germany 1933–1939 by David Schoenbaum So Waren Wir: Bildband zur Geschichte des BDM by Hertha Linda (translated as So We Were: Pictorial History of the BDM)

Explore these resources to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the various facets of life for German women during this tumultuous period.