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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Where was the only accessible place in western continental Europe where one could take a plane or boat to the Americas in October 1940?

2. What did Shirer say he asked himself at the end of September 1940?

3. Where did Hitler and Mussolini meet on October 4, 1940?

4. Who provided Shirer's transmitters for his reports on the war?

5. What did Shirer notice about the Dutch and Belgium retreat?

Short Essay Questions

1. What ceremony did Shirer cover on June 21?

2. What did the German press report on July 15 according to Part II, pgs. 451-492?

3. What happened between March 13 and March 17?

4. What did newspaper headlines in Germany on May 9 announce and what did Shirer believe according to Part II, pgs. 331-369?

5. What happened to the public schools in Berlin as of February according to Part II, pgs. 289-330?

6. What happened to all of Shirer's broadcasts?

7. What did Shirer feel about the British?

8. What did Shirer wonder about himself?

9. What marked the end of the Reich's second phase?

10. Which of Hitler's plans were revealed on July 25?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Shirer discussed the effects of the blockade several times in the Berlin Diary. Students should discuss the effects of the blockade, how the ration cards impacted the populace, and how some got around the rationing. Students may also compare the rationing in Germany with the food sources of a territory conquered by Germany and its allies. Use the text and secondary sources to support your discussion.

Essay Topic 2

The Nazis continued to advance, with many countries putting up a short fight, surrendering or even signing pacts with Germany. Students should examine the advancement of the Nazis, analyzing the strategy of Hitler and comparing conquered territories with his inability to wipe out the Royal Air Force. Use the text and secondary sources to support your discussion.

Essay Topic 3

The  Hindenburg disaster occurred in May 1937. Students should discuss Shirer's coverage of the Hindenburg disaster, the impact of censorship on his report, and what theories developed after the destruction of the passenger airship. Use the text and secondary sources to support your discussion.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 654 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample