Life in Germany during the war

Early war years (1939-1941)

Later war years (1942-1945)

The Blitzkrieg brought quick victories and increased supplies from conquered countries, so civilians initially experienced little hardship.
From 1939, rationing helped manage supplies, with some Germans even benefiting from healthier diets.
Despite Nazi ideals about women staying at home, labour shortages led to 6.2 million women working by 1939, and by 1943, women were conscripted into industry.
Goebbels used propaganda to maintain public morale and support for the war effort.

Germany’s defeat at Stalingrad marked a turning point; from 1942, cities faced devastating Allied bombing.
From 1943, Albert Speer redirected all industry to war production, halting civilian goods and increasing arms output.
By 1944, all workers had to support the war effort; women were conscripted into industry.
In desperation, the Nazis formed the Volkssturm in 1944 – an under-trained, poorly equipped militia of youths and older men.

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