The Sports Palace speech was the climax of a campaign for 'total war'; the prime example of Nazi 'mass suggestion', a barrage of propaganda, seduction, and manipulation. On the 18th of February 1943 Nazi Propaganda Minister Joseph Goebbels made a speech in the Berlin Sports Palace that is regarded as one of the most chilling, and at the same time most effective, rhetorical performances of the twentieth century. In this definitive English translation, renowned historian Peter Longerich delves into the historical buildup to Goebbels's most notorious speech, the speech itself, and its lasting effect. Goebbels and 'Total War' singles out the Sports Palace speech to demystify the legend of Nazi propaganda by exposing the reality of the rally as a highly staged and prerecorded event, with a preselected audience and rehearsed reactions made to look spontaneous. For Goebbels, this spectacle was not only his chance to raise support for 'total war' in the German public but also the ultimate test to prove himself to his 'Führer'. Longerich traces Goebbels's path to 'total war' from his questionable demagogue skills and his tenuous relationship with Hitler, to the nation's losing battle at the front, and finally to total defeat.

"Peter Longerich is a superb historian who provides sharp insights in fluid accessible prose...This is a book with a dramatic focus and profound implications." - Peter Fritzsche, Author of 1942: When World War II Engulfed the Globe

"What I particularly admire...is the careful balance that Longerich strikes between showing why this speech was so important...and demythologising it in a way that helps us to challenge conventional thinking on Nazi propaganda." - Matthew Stibbe, Professor of Modern European History, Sheffield Hallam University

"Peter Longerich is clearly the most qualified person to write a book about Goebbels' infamous speech. ...a highly readable publication ... as a close reading of a primary source it has enormous value." - Volker Benkert, Associate Professor of History, Arizona State University

"A skilful discussion of the public consideration of strategic choices." - Jeremy Black, New Diplomatic History