Historian A: Deborah Lipstadt – Political/Ideological Perspective "Deborah Lipstadt argues that anti-Semitism in Nazi Germany was driven primarily by political and ideological motives. She emphasizes the role of Nazi propaganda, racist ideology, and the desire for territorial expansion as key factors that fueled anti-Semitic policies. Lipstadt contends that anti-Semitism was used as a tool to unite the German population around a common enemy, creating a scapegoat for economic and social problems. Her view suggests that anti-Semitism was deliberately cultivated by the Nazi leadership to justify their actions and to implement the Final Solution."

Historian B: Christopher Browning – Social/Economic Perspective "Christopher Browning views anti-Semitism as rooted in deep-seated social and economic factors. He highlights the long history of anti-Semitic stereotypes, economic scapegoating, and social exclusion that created an environment conducive to violence. Browning argues that economic crises, such as the Great Depression, intensified anti-Semitic sentiments, which ordinary people adopted and acted upon. His perspective suggests that anti-Semitism was not solely driven by Nazi ideology but was also a product of wider societal tensions, prejudices, and economic struggles that existed across Germany and Europe."

Questions:

1. Explain the main argument of Historian A regarding the causes of anti-Semitism in Nazi Germany. (3 marks) marking: