An Appalling Cause

Nazi propaganda was incredibly strong for imparting ideology in people’s minds through the thought-provoking images and symbols they used. The Hitler Youth were instrumental in this effort. The role of the drummer boy became a position of honor and they often participated in rallies held to invigorate the German people. We can speculate on their innocence as being indoctrinated by a higher power but that must be presumed on an individual basis. Regardless of their intentions, their contributions strictly as drummers are noteworthy. Appearing in large numbers, the Nazi drummer’s pulse echoed throughout the venues they played in. In addition to their performances as musicians, their coordinated movements were striking. It is unfortunate that their drumming was in support of such an evil theology.