Gleichschaltung 
Pronunciation: /ˈɡlaɪçʃaltʊŋ/
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.
From Machtergreifung to Führerstaat
In just nineteen months, a constitutional democracy was turned into a dictatorship. Scroll through the steps that made it happen.