WWII and the Use of Amphetamines: Allies vs. Axis
WWII and the Use of Amphetamines: Allies vs. Axis
In the fast-paced and intense theaters of World War II, both the Allied and Axis powers utilized various stimulants to maintain morale, combat fatigue, and enhance combat performance. One of the most notorious stimulants to emerge during this period was Pervitin, used extensively by the German forces. The Allies, however, also employed similar substances, with Benzedrine being the prominent choice. This article explores the use of these stimulants, focusing on their impact on the outcome of specific battles and the broader implications of their widespread use.
German Usage of Pervitin
During the Battle of Arnhem, Nazi soldiers resorted to using Pervitin, a form of methamphetamine, to cope with lack of sleep and battle fatigue. Initially developed in Germany as a weight-loss drug and to treat narcolepsy, Pervitin became a widely distributed drug among the German military. It was particularly used before and during battles, often without proper medical supervision. In the case of the Battle of Arnhem, the Paratroopers experienced adverse side effects such as hallucinations and were rendered useless for effective fighting, ultimately leading to a decisive German victory.
Allied Usage of Benzedrine
Contrary to the German experience, the Allied forces embraced the use of Benzedrine, an amphetamine, to enhance soldier performance and maintain alertness. Benzedrine, initially developed as an inhaler for asthma patients, was found to have potent stimulant properties and was used to treat a variety of conditions, including depression, bedwetting, and menstrual cramps. Its widespread use in the Allied forces was characterized by both informal and authorized usage, particularly among pilots and military personnel.
According to Nicolas Rasmussen's article "Medical Science and the Military: The Allies Use of Amphetamine during World War II" (The Journal of Interdisciplinary History, Vol. 42, No. 2, 2011), the RAF began procuring Benzedrine in 1942. By the end of 1942, flight crews and pilots were issued with 5 mg tablets per mission. Field Marshal Montgomery authorized the use of up to 20 mg of amphetamines per day for up to five consecutive days, a key strategy before his attack at El Alamein. As the war progressed, the British army also became a widespread user of amphetamines.
By February 1943, the US Army announced the availability of 5 mg Benzedrine sulphate "pep pills" in packets of six for individual soldiers. This was to be distributed wherever the commander deemed necessary, marking a significant step in the formalization of amphetamine use within the Allied ranks.
Impact on Battles
The use of amphetamines by both sides had varying impacts on the outcome of specific battles. During the Battle of Arnhem, the lack of proper medical supervision and the adverse effects on the German forces' capacity to fight resulted in the Axis powers' victory. Conversely, the Allied forces, particularly in flights and combat missions, saw improved performance and enhanced alertness. However, the long-term impact on soldier health and well-being is a matter of critical debate.
Conclusion
The historical use of Pervitin and Benzedrine during World War II highlights the significant role of stimulants in military strategy and performance. While the German forces experienced detrimental side effects, the Allies benefited from enhanced alertness and prolonged endurance, crucial aspects of the war effort. The lessons learned from this period underscore the need for careful medical supervision and long-term health monitoring in the use of such substances in military and other high-stress environments.