In 1936, Nazi Germany hosted both the Summer and Winter Olympics. In February, the winter games were held in Garmisch-Partenkirchen (Bavaria), and in the summer Berlin hosted the summer games. Germany was awarded both Olympics before the Nazis came to power, and many tried to boycott them. But Germany allowed German Jews to participate in the Olympics, and opposition eventually dwindled.

It was turned into a propaganda opportunity by the Nazis, and for the most part it was very successful. Nazi Germany seemed very well run and efficient, especially compared to other western countries still in the clutches of the Great Depression. Totalitarian efficiency didn't seem so bad, and the Nazi police-state seemed to be relaxed. The only blemish for Hitler was Jesse Owens: Owens was a black American athlete who won four track and field medals. Hitler refused to place the medals on Owens like he had for other (white) athletes.

 

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