Obama critics: Take time for self-reflection

Many critics compare the Obama Administration to Nazi Germany. Here are some facts:

The Nazis were invited into the German government by President Paul von Hindenburg, following the advice of Franz von Papen, who ensured Hindenburg that he could “manage” Hitler. Both men were members of the landed aristocracy.

Hitler won the political support of the German army and promised he would abrogate the Versailles treaty and rebuild the German military.

Large corporations like IG Farben, Siemens and Daimler prospered during Nazi rule. The large firms received arms contracts, benefitted when the Nazis outlawed labor unions and profited from the use of slave labor.

Small-business owners, white-collar workers and small farmers were the backbone of the Nazi Party. They were swayed by Nazi anti-Communism and appeals to a “German folk community.” Although large landowners relied on Polish agricultural workers, the Nazis portrayed Polish immigrants as a threat to German society.

Nazi diplomacy emphasized the unilateral use of military force. World War II began with the invasion of Poland, which Nazi propaganda insisted was an imminent threat to German security.

Before likening Obama to Hitler, his critics need examine their politics and take a long look in a mirror.

Jeff Klinzman

Coralville