The role of psychoactive drugs in Nazi Germany's military history, particularly during World War II, and their impact on Hitler and the Blitzkrieg, as well as the broader history of drugs in human civilization.
About this podcast
Dive deep into a fascinating and often overlooked aspect of World War II history with historian and author Norman Ohler, known for his groundbreaking book "Blitzed: Drugs in the Third Reich." In this compelling conversation on the Lex Fridman Podcast, Ohler uncovers the profound influence of psychoactive drugs, especially methamphetamine, on the Nazi regime, Adolf Hitler's personal health, and the strategic execution of the Blitzkrieg. Explore the cultural context of drug use in post-WWI Germany, the unexpected role of stimulants in military campaigns, and the dark intersection of pharmacology and totalitarianism. The discussion extends beyond WW2 to touch upon the CIA's MKUltra project and Ohler's upcoming work, "Stoned Sapiens," which promises a sweeping history of human civilization viewed through the lens of drugs. This episode offers a unique perspective on historical events, challenging conventional narratives and revealing the hidden chemical undercurrents that shaped one of history's most critical periods.
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