#481 – Norman Ohler: Hitler, Nazis, Drugs, WW2, Blitzkrieg, LSD, MKUltra & CIA

Norman Oler, author of *Blitzed: Drugs in the Third Reich*, discusses the significant role of psychoactive drugs, particularly methamphetamine, in World War II. His research reveals an overlooked perspective on Hitler and the Third Reich, emphasizing the drug culture that emerged in Germany during the Weimar Republic. Oler explains that the Nazi movement began in the 1920s, particularly in Bavarian beer halls, where alcohol was prevalent, although Hitler himself was a non-drinker. He contrasts this with the drug culture in Berlin, which thrived after World War I and the Versailles Treaty, leading to widespread substance use, including morphine, cocaine, and ether.

The motivations for drug use in Berlin included rebellion against societal norms, coping with economic depression, and exploration among young people. The Nazis, particularly figures like Goebbels, despised this culture and targeted drug users to enforce conformity upon gaining power in 1933. Oler notes that drug use was prevalent due to its accessibility and the means it provided for individuals to navigate their identities.

The conversation shifts to the early days of the Nazi Party, particularly the role of alcohol in political gatherings. Hitler's manipulation of intoxicated individuals during the Beer Hall Putsch in 1923 illustrates the chaotic nature of this failed coup. Oler reflects on how pivotal moments could have altered the course of history and emphasizes the significance of substance abuse in understanding the actions and ideologies of historical figures, especially Hitler.

The insights of historian Ian Kershaw are mentioned, particularly regarding Hitler's doctor, Morel, who provided questionable medications. Oler stresses the need to explore various perspectives on the Nazi military, including tactics, propaganda, and the substances consumed by leaders and soldiers. He was inspired to write *Blitzed* after discovering documents in military archives that detailed systematic drug use in the German army, including experiments aimed at developing a drug to keep soldiers awake.

The conversation also touches on the reception of Oler's work by historians. While some praised the research, others criticized it as undermining accountability. Oler agrees on the complexity of historical events and the importance of avoiding a singular explanatory lens. He recounts his research process, including visits to archives and discussions about the role of methamphetamine in Germany's Blitzkrieg victories.

Professor Ranke, head of the Institute for Army Physiology, aimed to enhance soldier performance through methamphetamine, which he believed improved capabilities. His documents revealed a wealth of information, including a war diary detailing his experiences. However, Ranke's own use of methamphetamine led to his depression and burnout, highlighting the drug's potential for addiction and negative mental health effects.

The Nazis established an anti-drug regime while paradoxically promoting their own ideological intoxication. Early victims of concentration camps included drug users, reflecting the regime's anti-Semitic policies that linked drug use to Jewish identity. Hitler was portrayed as a model of purity, abstaining from drugs and alcohol, while the introduction of methamphetamine in Nazi Germany was driven by companies like Temmler, which sought to create a superior German amphetamine.

Pervitin, a methamphetamine developed in Germany, became widely accessible in pharmacies and gained popularity in the late 1930s. Users reported increased energy and performance, leading to its normalization in society. The German military recognized Pervitin's potential to enhance soldier performance by reducing sleep and appetite. Despite initial skepticism, Ranke's experiments demonstrated that Pervitin provided superior energy and endurance compared to caffeine and placebo.

As Hitler planned to attack the West, he faced opposition from military leaders who feared catastrophic losses. The German army's initial delays in Belgium prompted a search for solutions to keep troops awake, leading Ranke to advocate for methamphetamine use. The surprise attack through the Ardennes, supported by meth use, became one of Germany's most successful military operations.

The effectiveness of the Blitzkrieg strategy relied on the combination of fast-moving infantry, aircraft, and the use of meth, which shifted soldiers' moods from fear to euphoria. Methamphetamine activated the fight or flight response, making soldiers more alert and fostering a sense of camaraderie among troops during the campaign.

The conversation highlights the chaotic and brutal nature of warfare during World War II, particularly focusing on the actions of German General Rommel. The discussion emphasizes the dehumanization of the enemy and the moral implications of soldiers' actions, particularly young draftees in Nazi Germany who faced severe consequences for refusing to serve.

Oler reflects on his family's history, particularly his grandfather's guilt for not intervening during the transport of Jews, and argues against excusing individuals for genocidal policies, asserting that drug influence does not absolve premeditated crimes. The effectiveness of military tactics, such as Blitzkrieg, is discussed alongside the role of drugs like methamphetamine in the Wehrmacht.

The conversation shifts to Hitler's leadership, where Wehrmacht officers expressed frustration with his decisions. The speaker notes that Hitler's ideology and declining cognitive abilities hindered effective military planning. Morphine's historical significance is addressed, highlighting its development and crucial role in treating soldiers during wars. The introduction of the hypodermic needle enhanced its medical use, and Göring was noted to have used morphine.

Dr. Theodore Morel, Hitler's personal physician, provided various treatments, including testosterone and opioids, to enhance performance. Morel's unconventional methods did not deter patients, who expressed gratitude for his treatments. A notable encounter occurred when Morel offered a probiotic treatment to alleviate Hitler's bloating.

The conversation shifts to a critical moment in August 1941 during Germany's invasion of the Soviet Union, where Hitler's decision to split forces instead of advancing on Moscow is discussed. On the day of this decision, Morel administered an intravenous injection of Dolantin, revitalizing Hitler and allowing him to dominate a military meeting.

The use of methamphetamine by German troops is also mentioned, highlighting its initial effectiveness but eventual limitations. The discussion draws parallels to Genghis Khan's military strategies, emphasizing the importance of speed and mobility in warfare. From 1941 to 1943, Hitler's medication regimen shifted to more experimental drugs, including bull's testicle extracts, under Morel's guidance.

Hitler's interest in experimenting with drugs, despite his public stance against them, showcases his trust in Morel. The dynamic between Hitler and Morel is complex, marked by a blend of trust and paranoia. Hitler's relationship with drugs was primarily facilitated by Morel, who administered various substances to enhance Hitler's performance.

Following the July 20, 1944, assassination attempt, Hitler began using cocaine to manage his pain. This newfound interest in cocaine provided him with a sense of clarity and superiority, further contributing to his paranoia and instability. The rivalry between Morel and Dr. Giesing intensified as Giesing sought to limit Morel's influence over Hitler.

The conversation also touches on the cinematic potential of exploring the "doctor's war" narrative, emphasizing that a well-crafted film could provide a deeper understanding of the impact of drug use on Hitler's decision-making. The discussion explores Mussolini's resignation during World War II and its effect on Hitler's mood, highlighting that Hitler became empowered after taking Eukoday, a drug administered by Morel.

The implications of Hitler's drug use on the war's outcome are discussed, suggesting that while the war's complexity makes it difficult to assess, a German defeat seemed inevitable. The analysis critiques Hitler's leadership, arguing that a rational leader would not have made his choices, which stemmed from insanity and ideological fixation.

The impact of Hitler's drug addiction is further examined, particularly his dependency on Eukodal and the challenges faced when the drug became unavailable. Morel's desperate search for the drug and Hitler's withdrawal symptoms are discussed, culminating in a confrontation with Morel that led to Morel's dismissal.

The conversation explores Hitler's sexual life, particularly his relationship with Eva Braun, suggesting that while their sexual practices may have included both normal and unconventional elements, they did not significantly influence military operations. The discussion shifts to "The Bohemians," a book focusing on individuals who resisted the Nazis from within Germany, particularly highlighting Harro Schulze-Beusen.

The relationship between Harro and Libertas is examined, revealing their contrasting backgrounds and emotional dynamics. The conversation also addresses the ethical dilemmas faced by the resistance, particularly regarding collaboration with the Allies and the Soviet Union. The immense dangers of resistance are underscored, as independent thought was perilous in an environment rife with propaganda.

The speaker discusses the lessons of resisting totalitarianism, highlighting the importance of bravery and acting on one's conscience. They explore the role of neuroplasticity in human evolution and the necessity of resistance for preserving humanity. Literature is presented as a form of resistance, capable of enhancing freedom and perspective.

The conversation concludes with reflections on the nature of war, emphasizing that conflicts between nation-states result in suffering for both sides. The speaker shares their personal experiences with psychedelics, particularly LSD, noting their initial encounter and how it led to profound insights about reality. The history of LSD is discussed, including its development and potential as a treatment for mental health issues during World War II.

The conversation delves into the historical context and usage of LSD, particularly its connections to the Nazis and American military interests. The dialogue shifts to Richard Kuhn's collaboration with American forces post-World War II, suggesting a strategic pivot in loyalties to avoid Nuremberg trials. The CIA's subsequent takeover of LSD research is discussed, particularly in the context of Cold War tensions and the establishment of MKUltra.

The speaker reflects on the broader implications of LSD, noting its potential to foster empathy and diverse perspectives, while also acknowledging its limitations as a truth serum. The conversation also touches on the challenges of writing and the influence of literature on culture, highlighting how works can expand perspectives, especially when experienced during formative years.