Hitler's Responsibility For The War

"It used to be generally thought that Hitler had a mater plan by which he plotted to reverse the results of the Great War and assert German control over the whole of Europe as a step to world domination. Few historians any longer see things as simply as that. The prevailing view now is that Hitler in foreign affairs, as in domestic ones, was an opportunist who responded to events rather than directing them. It is true that he had broad objectives. For example, he wanted Germany to recover its military strength, he longed to destroy Bolshevism, and he dreamed of Lebensraum (literally 'living space', which meant the taking over an settlement of Easter Europe by Germans). But these were aims, not detailed plans. His style was to play upon the weaknesses of others and see how far he could push them. He preferred to get his way by threats and resorted to war only when his threats were not enough." - Michael Lynch

What an interesting view into a successful and diabolical mind! Hitler achieved one of the largest land grabs in history through the sheer force of his will and firmness in his belief. For one thing, it goes to show the power of conviction, enough such that the murderous policies Hitler advocated became rational in so many minds. Another lesson is the extent to which a bully can prevail, if not stood up to. Just this morning I encountered a situation where a superior tried to dictate how a certain plan would go. It wasn't an "evil" plan by any means, but it fell askew of the kind of inclusiveness that makes team members feel valued. In trying to advance this idea I was "attacked" initially, and standing firm, in the end logic prevailed. This was not two adversaries with a winner and loser... this was a common ideal of group buy-in that shone more brightly than the cloud of inconvenience that threatened to blot it out. Sometimes it pays to stick to the greater good.