Guido Knopp

Hitler's Hitmen

What made six ordinary men instigate the terrifying criminal Nazi regime throughout German society and beyond with such enthusiasm and diligence? Supported by recently discovered files from all over the world, and interviews with former Nazi members and victims, Guido Knopp examines the background and activities of some of Hitler's right-hand men. Here is Adolf Eichmann, who arranged the deportation of Jews in crowded trains, before sentencing thousands to a terrifying death as part of the Final Solution; Martin Bormann, Hitler's secretary and deputy, who controlled sensitive papers to influence government policy; Joachim von Ribbentrop, Hitler's foreign advisor; Roland Friesler, known as the hanging judge on account of his brutality in administrating Nazi law; Baldur von Schirach, leader of the Hitler Youth movement; and Joseph Mengele, the doctor involved in the bizarre genetic experiments on concentration camp prisoners. These very different people all shared an awestruck dedication to Hitler and a deep hatred of the Jews. Through the diaries and first-hand observations of those around them, their personalities are brought to life to provide an exemplary portrait of the elusive minds of willing Nazi executors.