The speech delivered on February 20, 1937, marks a significant shift in Hitler's rhetoric, emphasizing the need for caution and restraint in Germany's foreign policy. He appeals to the German people's sense of patriotism and national pride, while also acknowledging the country's economic struggles. Hitler presents himself as a pragmatic leader who has learned from past mistakes, particularly the Treaty of Versailles. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining good relations with other European powers, particularly Italy and Japan, in order to avoid another devastating war. The speech is notable for its lack of aggressive tone, which was characteristic of Hitler's earlier speeches. Instead, he focuses on the need for economic recovery and the improvement of living standards for the German people. He also emphasizes the importance of education and culture, highlighting the need for a strong and educated population to drive Germany's future success. Overall, the speech is seen as a reflection of Hitler's growing awareness of the limitations of his power and the need to present himself as a more moderate leader in order to achieve his goals.
By Adolf Hitler · First published 1933 · Genre: Political Speech, Historical Non-Fiction, Propaganda · 2 chapters