What term describes the concept of "living space" that justified German territorial expansion?

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Study for the Texas AandM University HIST106 History of the United States Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The term that describes the concept of "living space" which justified German territorial expansion is indeed "Lebensraum." This concept emerged prominently in German nationalist rhetoric, particularly during the early to mid-20th century. Situated within the broader context of Nazi ideology, Lebensraum was used to advocate for the acquisition of additional territory for the German people, based on the belief that the nation's population required more space to grow and thrive. This idea was tightly interwoven with notions of racial superiority and the need for Aryan expansion at the expense of other nations and peoples, particularly in Eastern Europe.

By promoting Lebensraum, the Nazis sought to justify their aggressive expansionist policies, leading to the annexation of neighboring countries and the implementation of devastating military campaigns during World War II. This concept was not just about physical land but also about the establishment of a demographic and cultural dominance, implying that the Germans had a right to these territories.

The other terms, while related to German nationalism or the Nazi ideology, serve different purposes: Grossdeutschland refers specifically to a concept of a greater German nation, Bodenrecht pertains to rights associated with land, and Volksgemeinschaft evokes a vision of a unified national community. However, none captures the specific idea of "living space"