Controlling Religion

What did the Nazis do to control religion?

The Nazis tried to control religion. They initially worked with both the Catholic and Protestant churches, but after Nazifying church buildings and breaking the concordat they became enemies.

What was the role of religion to the Nazis?

The Nazis used religion to promote their own ideology and regime. They even attempted to set up a Nazi church called the 'Reich Church'.

When did the Nazis try to control religion?

The Nazis had to first consolidate their power, before attempting to make significant changes to religious organisations. The attacks on German Catholics and Protestants increased dramatically in the 1930s as the Nazis gained more control over society.

Why did the Nazis want to control religion?

There were 3 main reasons why the Nazis wanted to control religion:

• ❖ Christianity taught love and tolerance which went against Nazi beliefs. Therefore, religious groups could be predisposed to opposing the Nazi government.
• ❖ Religious groups followed the teachings of their religion and their religious leader, eg, Catholics followed the pope, not Hitler.
• ❖ Ultimately, Hitler wanted to replace the Church with his own Nazi-based religion.

How did the Nazis control religion and the Catholic Church?

Initially, the Nazis worked with the Catholic Church. Hitler signed an agreement with the pope, called a concordat, in July 1933. It stated neither side would interfere with the other. However, Hitler broke his promises and attacked the Catholic Church.

How did the Nazis deal with religion and the Protestant Church?

Initially, the Protestant church worked with the Nazis. Some members that opposed the Nazis set up the Pastors' Emergency League in 1933. Those that worked with the Nazis created the Reich Church in 1936, led by Ludwig Müller.

How successfully did the Nazis control religion?

The Nazis faced continued opposition from religious groups and were never able to establish total control.