The article explores how the National Socialists, under Nazi ideology, viewed sport not as recreation but as essential physical education to ensure a strong, healthy populace ready for war. Emphasizing collective over individual achievements, sports were a tool for military preparation, especially in youth organizations like the Hitler Youth. Historical critiques highlight a rejection of international sports, seen as contrary to their nationalist agenda. The 1936 Olympic Games were thus a strategic effort to project a powerful image despite their ideological opposition to international cooperation in sports.
In my Ordensburg, a youth will grow up that will terrify the world. I want a violent, imperious, fearless, cruel youth.
The weak must be hammered away. Physical exercise was compulsory in many Nazi organizations, teaching boys military behavior.
Internationality, the Olympic movement, togetherness, international understanding, that was ideologically rejected.
The Nazis organized the 1936 Olympic Games despite their criticism of international competitive sport, aiming to showcase their ideology.
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