Do You Take the Oath?
At a Glance
Language
English — USSubject
- History
- Social Studies
Grade
9–12Duration
One 50-min class period- The Holocaust
- Genocide
- Antisemitism
- Democracy & Civic Engagement
Overview
About this Lesson
In the previous lesson, students analyzed the steps the Nazis took in 1933 and 1934 to dismantle democracy in Germany and establish a dictatorship. Students also began to think about the responsibilities shared by both leaders and citizens for democracy’s survival. In this lesson, students will continue this course’s historical case study by engaging in a deeper analysis of the dilemmas many Germans experienced during the first few years of Nazi rule. In particular, they will examine how some individuals responded to demands that they show allegiance, and in some cases take an oath of fidelity, to Adolf Hitler and the Nazi government.
By carefully considering the choices and the reasoning of the individuals in this lesson, students will not only learn more about the human behaviors underlying Germans’ choices in the mid-1930s but also deepen their understanding of the complex ethical dilemmas people often face over whether to stay quiet, speak up, or take action in response to injustices.
Multiple extension activities bring additional complexity to the themes of this lesson by introducing opportunism and the desire to curry favor as motivating factors in the decision-making process. These extensions provide options for more in-depth lessons and classes with older students.
Preparing to Teach
A Note to Teachers
Before teaching this lesson, please review the following information to help guide your preparation process.
Lesson Plan
Activities
Assessment
Extension Activities
Materials and Downloads
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Do You Take the Oath?
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