Gleichschaltung - Definition

Definition: A German term meaning "coordination" or "bringing into line," referring to the Nazi policy of establishing total control over all aspects of German society by eliminating independent institutions and forcing conformity to Nazi ideology.

Etymology

German: gleich (equal, same) + schalten (to switch, to coordinate) + -ung (noun suffix)

Literally translates to "switching to the same" or "making equal."

Historical Context

Gleichschaltung was implemented by the Nazi Party between 1933 and 1935 to systematically eliminate political opposition and transform German society into a totalitarian state. This process involved:

Dissolving independent trade unions and political parties
Taking control of state governments
Coordinating cultural and educational institutions
Establishing Nazi control over professional associations
Forcing compliance with Nazi ideology across all sectors of society

The term represents one of the key mechanisms by which the Nazi regime consolidated power and eliminated democratic institutions in Germany.