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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Blitzed summary
Norman Ohler
Brief summary
Blitzed by Norman Ohler is a captivating historical account that uncovers the widespread use of drugs in Nazi Germany. It sheds light on the shocking role of methamphetamine and other substances in fueling the Third Reich's military campaigns and societal control.
Table of Contents
Blitzed
Summary of key ideas
Drugs and the Third Reich
In Blitzed, Norman Ohler takes us on a journey through the dark underbelly of Nazi Germany, exploring the widespread use of drugs, particularly methamphetamines, among the German populace and even within the highest echelons of the Nazi regime. Ohler argues that these drugs were not just recreational, but integral to the war effort, with the German military distributing millions of methamphetamine tablets to soldiers, pilots, and even U-boat crews to keep them alert and combat fatigue.
Ohler begins by delving into the early history of methamphetamine, known as Pervitin in Germany, and its initial use as a performance-enhancing drug. He describes the euphoric and energizing effects of Pervitin, which made it popular not only among soldiers but also among civilians who used it to stay awake during long shifts or to boost their mood in times of hardship.
Hitler's Personal Physician and the Fuhrer's Drug Addiction
The narrative takes a more sinister turn when Ohler introduces Theodor Morell, Hitler's personal physician, who played a significant role in fuelling the Fuhrer's drug addiction. Morell administered a cocktail of drugs to Hitler, including methamphetamine, cocaine, and barbiturates, which had a profound impact on the dictator's mental and physical health. Ohler argues that Hitler's increasingly erratic behavior and poor decision-making during the latter stages of the war can be attributed, at least in part, to his drug dependence.
Ohler provides chilling details of Hitler's daily drug regimen, which included numerous injections and pills, and how the dictator's declining health and drug-induced paranoia influenced the direction of the war. He also delves into the widespread use of other drugs within the Nazi regime, including opiates and cocaine, further highlighting the pervasive drug culture that existed in Hitler's Germany.
The Aftermath and Legacy of Drug Use in Nazi Germany
As the war reaches its conclusion, Ohler describes the devastating impact of drug addiction on both the German military and civilian population. The initial euphoria and energy provided by methamphetamine were replaced by severe physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms, contributing to a sense of hopelessness and despair as defeat became inevitable.
In the aftermath of the war, Ohler argues that the widespread use of drugs in Nazi Germany was largely overlooked, overshadowed by other atrocities committed by the regime. He also explores the role of pharmaceutical companies, such as Merck and Bayer, in producing and promoting these drugs, raising questions about their complicity in the regime's actions.
Reflections on History and Human Behavior
In conclusion, Blitzed offers a provocative re-examination of the Nazi era, challenging traditional narratives of the period. Ohler's account sheds light on the complex interplay between drugs, power, and ideology, and the ways in which they can influence historical events. It also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of drug abuse and its potential to exacerbate the destructive forces of war and totalitarianism.
While the subject matter is undeniably dark, Ohler's meticulous research and engaging storytelling make Blitzed a compelling and thought-provoking read. Ultimately, the book forces us to confront uncomfortable truths about human behavior and the capacity for widespread drug use to shape the course of history.
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What is Blitzed about?
Blitzed by Norman Ohler is a thought-provoking book that uncovers the widespread use of drugs in Nazi Germany. Drawing on extensive research, Ohler reveals how methamphetamines and other substances were used to fuel the German war effort and even influenced key strategic decisions. This eye-opening account challenges our understanding of history and sheds light on a dark and often overlooked aspect of World War II.
Blitzed Review
Blitzed (2015) uncovers the untold story of drug use in Nazi Germany, shedding light on a dark and often overlooked aspect of World War II history. Here's why this book is an eye-opening read:
- Reveals the shocking extent of drug use by Hitler's army, revealing a hidden side of their wartime strategy.
- Explores the impact of drugs on decisions and actions during the war, reshaping our understanding of this period.
- Engages readers with its compelling narrative and unique perspective, making history come alive in a new and captivating way.
Who should read Blitzed?
Readers who are interested in the history of World War II and Nazi Germany
Individuals curious about the role of drugs and substance abuse within the Nazi regime
Those who enjoy thought-provoking and unconventional perspectives on historical events
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Blitzed FAQs
What is the main message of Blitzed?
The main message of Blitzed explores the impact of drug use in Nazi Germany during World War II.
How long does it take to read Blitzed?
Reading Blitzed takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in under 15 minutes.
Is Blitzed a good book? Is it worth reading?
Blitzed is a captivating read shedding light on a lesser-known aspect of history, making it worth your time.
Who is the author of Blitzed?
The author of Blitzed is Norman Ohler.
What to read after Blitzed?
If you're wondering what to read next after Blitzed, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
- Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
- Why We Get Fat by Gary Taubes
- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Savor by Thich Nhat Hanh and Lilian Cheung
- Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman
- Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price
- Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss
- Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink
- The Twenty-four Hour Mind by Rosalind D. Cartwright