Germany and USSR in 1939: A Comparative Analysis of GDP

Introduction

The comparison of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Germany and the Soviet Union in 1939 provides a fascinating insight into the economic and industrial capabilities of both nations at the onset of World War II. This article examines the historical context, the economic statistics, and the influential policies that shaped the GDP disparities between these two nations during that period.

Oversight and Policy Failures in the USSR

The economic performance of the USSR in 1939 was heavily influenced by a series of policy failures, including collectivization, man-made famines, and government purges. These policies disrupted agricultural and industrial productivity, leading to a GDP significantly lower than that of Germany. Additionally, the Soviet Union was still undergoing its industrialization process, which delayed its economic progress further.

German Economic Superiority in 1939

Germany's economy in 1939 was more advanced and industrialized, contributing to its higher GDP. Estimates suggest that Germany's GDP in 1939 dollars was approximately 400 billion, compared to the USSR's GDP of around 200 billion. This disparity in economic capability can be attributed to Germany's industrial and technological superiority, as well as its strategic economic policies under the Nazi regime.

The Impact of War on Economic Productivity

The onset of World War II dramatically altered the economic dynamics of both nations. While the USSR experienced significant challenges due to invasions and territorial losses, Germany's annexation of territories further boosted its GDP. In 1941 and 1942, Germany's production still focused on consumer goods to prevent popular discontent among citizens. However, it wasn't until early 1943, when the Sportspalast speech was delivered by Joseph Goebbels, that Germany switched its production capacity to war materials. This shift marked a turning point in the war economy of Germany.

Economic Trends During the War Period

The economic trends of both nations during the war years reflect the changing priorities in war production. In 1940, Soviet GDP was slightly larger than Germany's, but this reversed in 1941 and 1942 due to Germany's capture of developed territories. By 1944 and 1945, the USSR recaptured its lands, leading to a drastic increase in its GDP, making it many times larger than Germany's.

Conclusion

The analysis of the GDP of Germany and the USSR in 1939 and the subsequent years reveals the intricate relationship between economic policies, industrial capabilities, and warfare. The influence of Nazi policies on Germany's economy and its later shift to a war economy are key factors that affected the GDP disparity between the two nations during the critical period of World War II.