Norman Ohler on the Blitzed Brain: WWII and Nazi Drug Use

Ever wondered what fueled the Nazi war machine beyond ideology? This episode of the Joe Rogan Experience dives into a fascinating and disturbing topic: the widespread use of drugs, particularly methamphetamine (Pervitin), within the German military and civilian population during World War II. Guest Norman Ohler, author of “Blitzed: Drugs in Nazi Germany,” sheds light on this often-overlooked aspect of history, revealing how performance-enhancing substances played a significant role in the Third Reich’s rise and fall. Get ready for a mind-blowing look at the dark side of history.

TL;DR

The German military widely used Pervitin (methamphetamine) to enhance performance and reduce inhibitions during WWII.
Hitler’s personal physician, Dr. Morell, administered a variety of drugs, including hormones and potentially opiates, to the Führer, impacting his decision-making.
Drug use wasn’t limited to the military; it permeated German society, from factory workers to housewives.
The initial success of Blitzkrieg tactics may be partially attributed to the stimulant effects of Pervitin.
The discussion raises ethical questions about the role of drugs in warfare and the potential consequences of chemically enhanced soldiers.

Key Topics Covered

The Pervitin-Fueled Blitzkrieg

Ohler details how Pervitin, a readily available form of methamphetamine, became commonplace among German soldiers. The drug was seen as a miracle substance, boosting alertness, confidence, and reducing the need for sleep. This, Ohler argues, played a crucial role in the early successes of the Blitzkrieg, allowing troops to maintain relentless momentum. The discussion highlights how the drug normalized a state of constant arousal and diminished judgment amongst its users, setting the stage for an aggressive and almost fearless military campaign.

What I found particularly interesting was how the initial positive effects of Pervitin eventually led to dependence and withdrawal symptoms, potentially impacting long-term strategic decision-making. The widespread use of Pervitin raises serious questions about the ethics of enhancing soldiers with drugs and the potential long-term consequences for both individuals and the conduct of war.

“Pervitin was the soldiers’ chocolate… It kept them awake, kept them going.” – Norman Ohler

Hitler’s Personal Physician: Dr. Morell

The conversation then shifts to Dr. Theodor Morell, Hitler’s personal physician, and his role in administering a cocktail of drugs to the Führer. Ohler explains that Morell initially treated Hitler’s stomach issues but gradually began injecting him with a range of substances, from vitamins and hormones to, potentially, opiates. The podcast delves into the potential impact of these drugs on Hitler’s mental state, decision-making, and overall health. One thing that really stood out was how the reliance on these drugs amplified Hitler’s existing paranoia and instability, contributing to his increasingly erratic behavior in the later years of the war.

The reliance on Dr. Morell and his ever-increasing dosages highlights Hitler’s increasing physical and mental deterioration. This part of the discussion provides a fascinating, if disturbing, look into the inner circle of the Nazi regime and the extent to which personal relationships and dependencies influenced historical events.

“Morell was not a good doctor… He was a charlatan, but he gave Hitler what he wanted.” – Norman Ohler

Drug Use in German Society

Ohler emphasizes that drug use wasn’t confined to the military elite; it was deeply ingrained in German society. Pervitin was widely available over the counter and marketed as a stimulant for everyday use, from boosting productivity at work to helping housewives manage their daily chores. This widespread availability normalized drug use and created a culture where people were encouraged to rely on chemical substances to cope with the stresses of daily life.

The discussion raises important questions about the societal impact of easily accessible stimulants and the potential for widespread addiction. The podcast effectively illustrates how a culture of drug use can permeate all levels of society, with potentially devastating consequences.

Intriguing Anecdotes & Stories

One particularly striking anecdote shared by Ohler is the story of German soldiers being supplied with Pervitin before the invasion of France. The drug allowed them to push through enemy lines with incredible speed and endurance, often going days without sleep. This aggressive advance, fueled by methamphetamine, contributed significantly to the early successes of the Blitzkrieg. This anecdote illustrates the immediate and tangible impact that drug use had on the battlefield.

Another fascinating story involves Hitler’s reliance on Dr. Morell and his injections. As the war progressed, Hitler became increasingly dependent on Morell’s treatments, which likely masked underlying health issues and contributed to his erratic decision-making. The tale of Dr. Morell and his influence over Hitler serves as a cautionary example of the dangers of unchecked power and the potential consequences of trusting unqualified individuals.

Conclusion

This episode of the Joe Rogan Experience offers a compelling and disturbing look at the role of drugs in Nazi Germany. Norman Ohler’s insights shed light on a hidden aspect of history, revealing how widespread drug use influenced military strategy, societal norms, and even the actions of Adolf Hitler himself. This episode is particularly interesting for anyone interested in World War II history, the psychology of leadership, or the impact of drugs on society.