The SS (Schutzstaffel) was a paramilitary organization under Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party in Germany during the Third Reich. Here's what you need to know about them:
1. Who were they? The SS was initially formed as a small personal bodyguard unit for Hitler. Over time, it grew in size and power, becoming a major force within the Nazi regime. The SS had various branches, including the Gestapo (secret police), concentration camp guards, and combat units.
2. What identified them? The SS members were identified by their iconic black uniforms adorned with the SS symbol (two lightning bolts). They were known for their loyalty to Hitler and their role in implementing the Nazi regime's policies, including carrying out acts of violence and oppression.
3. Requirements for being part of the SS: To join the SS, individuals had to meet certain criteria. They were required to be of Aryan descent, physically fit, and demonstrate unwavering loyalty to Hitler and the Nazi ideology. Members went through ideological indoctrination and rigorous training to ensure their commitment to the goals of the SS and the Nazi Party.
In summary, the SS was a powerful and notorious organization within the Nazi regime, known for its loyalty to Hitler, its brutal actions, and its role in carrying out the atrocities of the Holocaust.
