Food and agriculture in Nazi Germany

Generalplan Ost map

Food and Agriculture in Nazi Germany played a pivotal role in the regime's economic policies and the mobilization for war. The Nazi government, led by Adolf Hitler, aimed to make Germany self-sufficient to prepare for war, a concept known as Autarky. This article explores the policies, impacts, and outcomes of food and agriculture practices in Nazi Germany.

Background

Prior to the Nazi regime, Germany's agriculture was heavily impacted by the Great Depression, with falling prices and a decline in production leading to widespread rural poverty. The rise of the Nazis to power in 1933 was partially attributed to their promise to revive the agricultural sector, which was a significant part of their electoral base.

Policies and Implementation

The Nazi regime introduced the Reichsnährstand (Reich Food Estate) to control all aspects of food production and distribution. This organization was responsible for setting prices, determining production quotas, and regulating the distribution of agricultural products. The aim was to increase agricultural production, ensure a stable food supply for the German population, and achieve autarky.

One of the key policies was the Herdentieregesetz (Herd Animals Law), which aimed to increase the production of meat by regulating the breeding of livestock. The Erbhofgesetz (Hereditary Farm Law) was another significant policy, designed to preserve small and medium-sized farms by making them hereditary and exempt from sale or foreclosure.

The regime also launched the Battle for Production, which aimed to increase agricultural output through the use of modern farming techniques and machinery. This was coupled with efforts to reclaim and cultivate new lands.

Impact on Food Production and Consumption

These policies had a mixed impact on food production and consumption in Nazi Germany. Initially, there was an increase in agricultural production, and the standard of living for farmers improved. However, the focus on autarky and the diversion of resources towards the military as World War II approached led to shortages and rationing of food for the civilian population.

The war further strained food resources, leading to the implementation of the Hunger Plan, which aimed to divert food from occupied territories to feed the German army and civilian population. This resulted in widespread famine and suffering in the occupied regions.

Legacy

The policies and practices of food and agriculture in Nazi Germany had long-lasting impacts on the agricultural sector and food consumption patterns in Germany. The emphasis on self-sufficiency and autarky influenced agricultural policies in the post-war period. Additionally, the moral and ethical implications of the Hunger Plan and the exploitation of occupied territories for food production have been subjects of historical and ethical debate.

See Also

• Economy of Nazi Germany
• World War II
• Agricultural policy
• Autarky