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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. Guderian described Hitler as being prone to panic in what situations?

2. Guderian estimated the war could only continue for a few more weeks if what critical area was taken?

3. When was Guderian captured?

4. Guderian describeed Germany as being controlled in what way?

5. What did Guderian convince Himmler to do?

Short Essay Questions

1. How well did Himmler fare as the leader of Army Group Vistula?

2. How did Guderian quickly create an effective staff for his new command as Inspector-General of the Armored Troops?

3. What special authority did Guderian seek from general Schmundt?

4. What rumor did Guderian hear about Field Marshal von Kluge on July 18th?

5. What is the role of the "Court of Honor"?

6. What was the July 20th plot?

7. What defensive mistakes did Hitler constantly make during the allied advances in Europe?

8. How were the opinions about entering into war different for Hitler and for the General Staff?

9. What was the result of the July 20th plot?

10. What personal danger did Guderian face in Chapter 12?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Germany's war on the Eastern front quickly became a defensive battle after the stalled offensives of the first winter there and the disasters at Stalingrad and Kursk. However, Hitler failed to adapt to the demands of this style of warfare and the German army suffered significant setbacks as a result. The German army was never able to effectively defend against the advancing Russians.

1) Explain the strategic situation on the Eastern front when Germany went on the defensive.

2) Discuss the recommendations made by Guderian and other German military leaders for the defense of the Eastern front, and explain why Hitler refused to adopt these recommendations.

3) Describe some of the consequences of Hitler's mistakes on the Eastern front, including the loss of German divisions, vital resources, and strategic losses, such as the impact on morale and organization.

Essay Topic 2

Coming from an unimportant family and rising out of the junior officer corps, Guderian did not have a long-standing relationship with Hitler. However, Guderian's natural talents eventually caused him to be drawn into the Fuhrer's inner circle. Guderian developed strong feelings about Hitler as a leader and his influence on the war and the German people.

1) Trace the course of Guderian and Hitler's relationship through the end of the war. Describe how Guderian was first introduced to this leader and how he gained Hitler's confidence.

2) Explain in detail the major conflicts that occurred between these individuals.

3) Discuss what Guderian believed to be Hitler's most important strengths and weaknesses.

Essay Topic 3

Just before launching his attack against Poland, Hitler signed a non-aggression pact with Russia that, in theory, guaranteed peace between these nations for the immediate future. This agreement allowed Hitler to safely and quickly invade Poland with little concern for a Russian attack on his rapidly-advancing and disorganized troops.

1) Explain why Hitler sought and signed the non-aggression pact with Russia. What major strategic advantages did this pact provide for Germany?

2) Discuss the agreement between Germany and Russia to split Poland's territory and explain how this agreement enticed Russia to agree to the deal arrangement and to avoid attacking Germany.

3) Explain how Hitler took advantage of the period of relative peace that the non-aggression pact provided him following the conclusion of the Polish campaign.

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