German Labour Front and Nazi Control

The German Labour Front (DAF) played a significant role in increasing Nazi control after 1933. Established after trade unions were banned, the DAF allowed the Nazi Party to control and politicize its ideas among the working class. By seizing trade union assets and implementing policies that destroyed the influence of Marxists and social democrats, the DAF effectively silenced opposition. Under the leadership of Robert Ley, the DAF also banned strike actions and controlled the collective bargaining power of workers through the workbook system, thereby maintaining tight control over workers' rights. The DAF's efforts pleased the industrialist classes and further consolidated Nazi control. Additionally, the DAF set up organizations like Strength Through Joy and Beauty of Labour, which provided benefits such as cheap holidays to workers, including schemes like Volkswagen. Membership in the DAF was virtually compulsory, further solidifying Nazi control. However, while the DAF played a significant role, it can be argued that the SS, led by Himmler, and its unlimited powers of arrest, force, and intimidation were even more instrumental in increasing Nazi control. The Gestapo, under Heydrich, effectively hunted down enemies of the regime, tapping phone lines and sending thousands to concentration camps without trial. Himmler's creation of a police state by 1936 expanded Nazi control, with the SS playing a key role. Furthermore, the control over women and the family, indoctrination of young people through the Hitler Youth Program, Goebbels' propaganda machine, Nazi control of the education system, and the establishment of Nazi courts and judges all further contributed to increasing Nazi control. Ultimately, while the DAF was significant, it was just one of several factors that allowed the Nazis to strengthen their control over Germany.