Author: FeudFilms

World War 2 was a global conflict that pushed human limits in many ways. Including the physical and psychological stamina of soldiers on the front lines.

While stories of bravery and sacrifice abound, a darker aspect of this era’s history involves the use of Pervitin, a powerful methamphetamine, by German soldiers.

This video and blog post explores the use of Pervitin in WWII and its implications on the war effort, soldiers’ health, and the long-term consequences.

The Rise of Pervitin

Pervitin, also known as methamphetamine, was developed by the German pharmaceutical company Temmler in the 1930s. It was initially marketed as a treatment for various ailments, including depression, asthma, and even the common cold.

However, its stimulant properties soon attracted the attention of the German military.

In the early stages of WWII, the Wehrmacht, the German armed forces, began experimenting with Pervitin to enhance the performance and endurance of their soldiers.

This drug, which came in the form of small, easily transportable tablets, was believed to boost alertness, decrease the need for sleep, and increase confidence.

Pervitin on the Battlefield

German soldiers were issued Pervitin as part of their standard kit, especially on the Eastern Front, where harsh conditions and extended combat demanded high levels of endurance.

The drug allowed soldiers to march longer distances without fatigue and remain alert during extended battles. It also increased feelings of invincibility, leading soldiers to take greater risks.

One of the most famous instances of Pervitin use was during the Blitzkrieg in the early stages of the war. Soldiers, including tank crews and infantry, were often heavily reliant on Pervitin to maintain their strength and alertness during the rapid advances through Europe.

The Dark Side of Pervitin

While Pervitin seemed like a miraculous solution for the grueling conditions of war, it came at a significant cost. The drug’s side effects included extreme nervousness, irritability, paranoia, and hallucinations.

Over time, prolonged usage led to addiction and severe physical and psychological health problems.

The Impact on Soldiers

After World War II, Pervitin’s destructive effects became apparent, and it was banned in most countries. The substance would eventually re-emerge as street methamphetamine and lead to widespread addiction problems in the post-war years.

Pervitin and it’s Legacy

The use of Pervitin by German soldiers in World War II is a dark chapter in military history. While it temporarily provided a boost in endurance and alertness, it came at the high price of addiction, long-term health problems, and psychological trauma.

Pervitin serves as a cautionary tale of the ethical and physical costs of using stimulants in combat and a reminder of the devastating consequences of wartime choices.

It highlights the importance of considering the well-being of soldiers and the ethical ramifications of military drug use in future conflicts.

The Lightning Warfare of World War 2

Introduction

The term “Blitzkrieg,” which translates to “lightning warfare” in German, has become synonymous with the swift and devastating military strategy employed by the German armed forces during World War Two. This blog post delves into the concept of Blitzkrieg, its key principles, and its impact on the early stages of the war.

The Origins of Blitzkrieg

Blitzkrieg emerged as a novel military doctrine in the late 1930s. It was developed by the German military, particularly General Heinz Guderian, who combined several innovative ideas and technologies to create a formidable strategy.

Key Principles of Blitzkrieg

1. Speed and Mobility:
   • At the core of Blitzkrieg was the use of highly mobile units, particularly tanks and mechanized infantry.
   • These units were equipped with fast, reliable vehicles, allowing them to advance quickly and exploit weaknesses in the enemy’s defenses.
2. Concentration of Force:
   • Blitzkrieg emphasized the concentration of military force at a specific point of the enemy’s line, creating a localized numerical superiority.
   • The goal was to overwhelm the enemy’s defenses and disrupt their ability to react effectively.
3. Surprise and Deception:
   • The element of surprise played a crucial role in Blitzkrieg. German forces often attacked where and when the enemy least expected it.
   • Deceptive tactics, like feints and diversionary attacks, were used to confuse and distract the enemy.
4. Combined Arms:
   • Blitzkrieg units consisted of tanks, infantry, artillery, and air support working in close coordination.
   • This integration of different military branches allowed for swift and devastating attacks.

The Blitzkrieg in Action

The application of Blitzkrieg in World War II brought about dramatic results. Notable campaigns include:

1. The Invasion of Poland (1939):
   • The invasion of Poland marked the first large-scale use of Blitzkrieg tactics. German forces rapidly advanced, outflanked Polish defenses, and overwhelmed the country’s military within weeks.
2. The Fall of France (1940):
   • The “Manstein Plan” and the subsequent Battle of France demonstrated the sheer speed and effectiveness of Blitzkrieg. German forces bypassed the heavily fortified Maginot Line, encircled French and British troops, and forced the Dunkirk evacuation.
3. The Balkans and Operation Barbarossa (1941):
   • Blitzkrieg tactics were employed in the invasions of Yugoslavia and Greece, as well as in the initial stages of Operation Barbarossa, the invasion of the Soviet Union.

The Legacy of Blitzkrieg

Blitzkrieg had a profound impact on the course of World War II. It revolutionized military strategy and led to the development of mechanized and highly mobile warfare tactics that continue to influence modern warfare.

However, it is important to note that Blitzkrieg’s success was not solely due to its tactical brilliance. Factors like early-war technology, military leadership, and the element of surprise were equally important. As the war progressed, and its opponents adapted, Blitzkrieg became less effective.

Conclusion

Blitzkrieg was a defining military strategy of World War II, characterized by its emphasis on speed, surprise, and the concentrated use of force. It set the stage for the early German successes in the war and remains a lasting example of innovative military doctrine.