Explaining German fascism is difficult, since this species of social and political cannibalism did not take place in a backward country a long time ago. It occurred in the twentieth century among one of the world's most advanced and literate people. How was it possible that such a people accepted Hitler and gave him their overwhelming support? It is the purpose of this book of readings to provide evidence and interpretations that will help students to understand one of the most baffling periods in all history. The three parts of this book examine one aspect of the Third Reich: Hitler's personality, reasons for the Nazi rise to power, and the theory and practice of National Socialism.