Substance Use During World War II: The Role of Amphetamines, Alcohol, and Other Drugs
During World War II, the immense physical and psychological stresses of combat led many soldiers to turn to various substances to cope with their environments and enhance their performance. This era saw the widespread use of amphetamines, morphine, alcohol, and other drugs to address both medical and psychological needs.
Amphetamines: Enhancing Combat Readiness
Amphetamines were one of the most commonly used substances among both Allied and Axis powers. These drugs were utilized to keep soldiers alert and reduce fatigue, particularly during critical moments of conflict. For instance, the German military distributed a form of methamphetamine called Pervitin, which was ingested through oral tablets, to troops, especially during rapid assaults like the invasion of France.
Morphine: Pain Management and Addiction Risks
Morphine played a pivotal role in managing battlefield pain. Medics carried morphine syrettes to administer to wounded soldiers, which, while providing temporary relief, could also lay the groundwork for potential addiction issues in the long run. The widespread use of morphine among troops highlights the immediate need for pain relief in an environment where injuries were both common and severe.
Alcohol: A Common Reliever and Social Glue
Alcohol was another widely used substance among soldiers for relaxation and socializing. Rations often included beer or spirits, and many troops relied on alcohol to cope with the horrors of war. While not as chemically complex as other substances, alcohol provided a simple and often accessible means for soldiers to temporarily escape from the stress of combat.
Other Substances: Experimentation and Diverse Use
Beyond amphetamines, morphine, and alcohol, some soldiers experimented with a range of other substances, including marijuana and cocaine. Although these substances were less common than amphetamines and alcohol, they offered an array of effects, from mild euphoria to enhanced confidence and high energy levels.
The Case of "Pervitin": Methamphetamine and the Nazi Regime
The use of methamphetamine, a type of amphetamine, was particularly notable in the context of the Nazi regime. In 1938, a German pharmaceutical company introduced the drug under the name Pervitin. This highly addictive drug quickly gained popularity among the general population and, notably, among Nazi officials like the controversial leader of the SS, Heinrich Himmler, who reportedly took it almost daily.
Medical researcher Otto Friedrich Ranke tested Pervitin on university students, finding that it significantly enhanced mental alertness. This discovery led to the deployment of the drug on the front lines, where it was intended to help soldiers, sailors, and pilots fight longer and harder with less concern for personal safety. The effects of Pervitin, similar to those of natural adrenaline, produced heightened mental alertness and increased self-confidence, making it a potent 'war pill' in the eyes of the Nazi leadership.
The widespread use of these substances during World War II had profound effects on soldier behavior and health. Both during and after the conflict, many individuals faced long-term physical and psychological consequences from their use of these drugs. The legacy of substance use during this significant historical period continues to be a subject of intense research and historical analysis.