Answer the following questions with a thoughtful essay of two to three pages (typed and double-spaced). A successful essay will contain a clear thesis statement and make effective use of the assigned primary sources as evidence, showing awareness of both change and continuity in historical developments. Be sure to cite your sources.

Nazism in Germany and Communism in the Soviet Union have both been described as "totalitarian" systems of government. Both aimed at (and perhaps largely achieved) total control over their populations and a total reorganization of their life.

How did these two systems seek to bring about alternative visions of human progress during the mid-twentieth century? Include quotations from the assigned readings to demonstrate the goals and effects of their policies.