Nazi social and economic policiesEconomic policies

The Nazis aimed to reduce unemployment and prepare for war:

• they started a major programme of public works, such as building and repairing roads, railways and houses
• they built up Germany's armed forces
• thousands of jobs were created in the iron, steel, aviation and shipbuilding industries

The Nazis took control of workers’ lives in the following ways:

• striking was banned
• it was compulsory for young men to be employed in public works schemes for six month stints
• Nazi-approved leisure activities and holidays for loyal workers were organised