Who was Carl Friedrich Goerdeler, and what was his primary role in German history?

Carl Friedrich Goerdeler was a prominent German conservative politician, monarchist, economist, and civil servant. He is primarily known for his opposition to the Nazi regime and his involvement in the German resistance movement. Had the 20 July plot to overthrow Hitler succeeded, Goerdeler was slated to become the Chancellor of the new government.

When and where was Carl Friedrich Goerdeler born, and what was his family background?

Carl Friedrich Goerdeler was born on July 31, 1884, in Schneidemühl, which was then part of the Prussian Province of Posen within the German Empire, and is now located in Poland. He came from a family of Prussian civil servants and was raised in a cultured, devoutly Lutheran, nationalist, and conservative household.

What were Goerdeler's educational and early professional experiences?

Goerdeler studied economics and law at the University of Tübingen from 1902 to 1905. Following his studies, he began his career as a civil servant for the municipal government of Solingen in the Prussian Rhine Province starting in 1911.

Describe Goerdeler's military service during World War I and his post-war activities.

During World War I, Goerdeler served as a junior officer on the Eastern Front, eventually reaching the rank of captain. After the war, he was part of the German military government in Minsk and later worked at the headquarters of the XVII Army Corps in Danzig. In this capacity, he submitted a memorandum advocating for the destruction of Poland to prevent territorial losses.

What political party did Goerdeler initially join after World War I, and what were his views on the Treaty of Versailles?

After his discharge from the army, Goerdeler joined the ultraconservative German National People's Party (DNVP). Like many Germans at the time, he strongly opposed the Treaty of Versailles, which imposed territorial concessions on Germany following World War I.

What significant mayoral positions did Goerdeler hold, and how was he regarded during the Weimar Republic?

Goerdeler served as the mayor of Königsberg (now Kaliningrad, Russia) starting in 1922. He was later elected mayor of Leipzig on May 22, 1930, a position he held until March 31, 1937. During the Weimar Republic era, he was widely recognized as a hardworking and effective municipal politician.

What was Goerdeler's role as Reich Price Commissioner, and how did it impact his political standing?

In December 1931, Chancellor Heinrich Brüning appointed Goerdeler as Reich Price Commissioner to oversee deflationary economic policies. His stern and diligent administration of this role made him a well-known figure across Germany, though his association with the Brüning government later led him to resign from the DNVP.

What were Goerdeler's initial views on Adolf Hitler and the Nazi regime in the early 1930s?

In the early 1930s, Goerdeler believed the Weimar Republic had failed and advocated for a conservative revolution. As late as 1935, he considered Hitler an "enlightened dictator" who could be a force for good if properly advised, though he later described this period as embarrassing.

How did Goerdeler act regarding the Nazi boycott of Jewish businesses in Leipzig in 1933?

On April 1, 1933, the day of the national boycott against Jewish businesses, Goerdeler, in his capacity as mayor of Leipzig, ordered the SA not to enforce the boycott and instructed the police to release Jewish hostages. He also made efforts to assist Jewish businessmen threatened by the Nazi regime's "Aryanization" policies.

What conflicts did Goerdeler have with Nazi economic policies and officials?

As Reich Price Commissioner, Goerdeler clashed with Economics Minister Hjalmar Schacht over inflationary policies, which he believed endangered the German economy. He also disagreed with Hitler's foreign policy, particularly the non-aggression treaty with Poland, and later sent memoranda urging a shift in economic priorities away from rearmament towards food imports and a return to a free market.

When did Goerdeler resign as mayor of Leipzig, and what led to his resignation?

Goerdeler resigned as mayor of Leipzig on March 31, 1937. His resignation was prompted by a dispute over the demolition of a monument to Felix Mendelssohn, a German-Jewish composer. Despite promises from Hitler that the statue would be safe during his trip to Finland, it was demolished on the orders of the Deputy Mayor, Rudolf Haake, leading to Goerdeler's disillusionment and departure from office.

After leaving public office, what role did Goerdeler play in the German resistance?

Following his resignation, Goerdeler became actively involved in anti-Nazi plots. He used his position at Robert Bosch GmbH as a cover for his activities, traveling abroad to warn foreign governments about Nazi Germany's aggressive foreign policy and attempting to build an opposition network within Germany.

What were Goerdeler's foreign policy views and actions in the years leading up to World War II?

Goerdeler traveled extensively between 1937 and 1938, warning foreign contacts about Nazi Germany's aggressive policies. While opposing Hitler's recklessness, he also advocated for Germany's territorial claims, including the Sudetenland, Polish Corridor, and former colonies. He sought British and American support for a post-Nazi government in exchange for concessions.

How did Goerdeler attempt to influence the German military against Hitler?

Goerdeler actively sought to persuade senior military figures, such as Generals Ludwig Beck and Werner von Fritsch, to act against the Nazi regime. He provided them with reports and engaged in discussions about potential coups, though he often found the military leadership hesitant or unwilling to commit.

What was Goerdeler's perspective on the Munich Agreement of 1938?

Goerdeler was deeply disappointed by the Munich Agreement, viewing it as a missed opportunity to overthrow Hitler. He believed that the agreement, while securing territory for Germany, removed the best chance for a coup and emboldened Hitler further.

What information did Goerdeler leak to the British government, and how did it influence their policy?

Goerdeler leaked information to the British, including warnings about Hitler's intentions regarding Czechoslovakia (*Fall Grün*) and later about a potential German-Soviet rapprochement. His assessments, though sometimes contradictory or exaggerated, influenced British and French leaders, contributing to their belief that a firm stance might deter Hitler or lead to his downfall.

What were Goerdeler's proposed peace terms for a post-Nazi Germany in October 1939?

In October 1939, Goerdeler drafted peace terms that included Germany retaining pre-1918 Polish territories, Austria, and the Sudetenland, while restoring independence to Poland and Czechoslovakia. His proposals also called for general disarmament, the restoration of global free trade, and an end to protectionism.

What was the nature of the abortive putsch attempt in November 1939 that Goerdeler was involved in?

Goerdeler was deeply involved in planning a putsch intended for November 5, 1939. However, the plan failed when key military leaders, Field Marshal Walter von Brauchitsch and General Franz Halder, withdrew their support, citing concerns about Hitler's prestige and the lack of a viable alternative leader.

What were Goerdeler's plans for Germany's post-Hitler government and constitution?

Goerdeler and his co-conspirators developed plans for a post-Nazi government, favoring the restoration of the monarchy, though not necessarily Kaiser Wilhelm II himself. Goerdeler envisioned a British-style constitutional monarchy where the monarch would reign but not rule, supported by a strong executive, a bicameral legislature, and a decentralized state.

How did Goerdeler's views on the 'Jewish Question' evolve, and what controversies surround them?

Goerdeler's stance on the 'Jewish Question' is a subject of historical debate. While he opposed the Holocaust and mass murder, some historians argue he held anti-Semitic views, believing German Jews were an alien element to be relocated. His proposals included maintaining some Nazi-era restrictions while advocating for a future Jewish state, leading to differing interpretations of his motives as either pragmatic or genuinely opposed to genocide.

What was Goerdeler's role in the planning of the 20 July 1944 plot against Hitler?

Goerdeler was a central figure in the 20 July plot, serving as the designated Chancellor in the planned post-Hitler government. He worked with other conspirators, including Ludwig Beck and Claus von Stauffenberg, to organize the overthrow of the Nazi regime, though he had a strained relationship with Stauffenberg.

What was Goerdeler's planned Cabinet if the 20 July plot had succeeded?

If the 20 July plot had succeeded, Goerdeler was designated to serve as Chancellor. The planned cabinet included prominent figures like Ludwig Beck as Regent, Wilhelm Leuschner as Vice-Chancellor, Friedrich Olbricht as Minister of War, and Claus von Stauffenberg as State Secretary to the Minister of War, among others from various political backgrounds.

How was Goerdeler captured and what happened to him after the failure of the 20 July plot?

After the 20 July plot failed, Goerdeler went into hiding but was apprehended on August 12, 1944, after being denounced. He was subsequently tried by the People's Court, sentenced to death, and executed by hanging on February 2, 1945, at Plötzensee Prison in Berlin.

What was Goerdeler's attitude during his interrogation and imprisonment?

During his interrogation and imprisonment, Goerdeler cooperated with the Gestapo, providing names of co-conspirators, which led to the arrest of hundreds. While not physically tortured, he endured harsh conditions and expressed despair over the failure of his cause. His cooperation led to him being viewed negatively by some fellow prisoners.

What were Goerdeler's final thoughts and actions before his execution?

In his final days, Goerdeler, a devout Lutheran, became increasingly preoccupied with spiritual matters. He wrote a farewell letter, asking the world to accept his martyrdom as penance for the German people. He also wrote a document reflecting on the Holocaust and expressing lingering anti-Semitic sentiments.

What role did Helene Schwärzel play in Goerdeler's capture?

Helene Schwärzel, a bookkeeper, denounced Goerdeler to the Gestapo, leading to his arrest. She was later found guilty of crimes against humanity for her actions.

What was Goerdeler's relationship with Claus von Stauffenberg within the resistance movement?

Goerdeler and Stauffenberg had a strained relationship, marked by mutual dislike and differing political views. Goerdeler viewed Stauffenberg as a "cranky, obstinate fellow" and a "dangerous 'romantic socialist'" with excessive ego, while Stauffenberg saw Goerdeler as leading the "revolution of the greybeards." Despite their differences, Stauffenberg's development of Operation Valkyrie provided a practical means for the putsch that Goerdeler had long sought.

How did Goerdeler's proposed post-war German constitution differ from that favored by the Kreisau Circle?

While both groups planned for a post-Nazi Germany, Goerdeler strongly advocated for laissez-faire capitalism and a constitutional monarchy, contrasting with the Kreisau Circle's more socialist leanings. Goerdeler's vision included a strong executive, decentralized governance, and a representative Reichstag and Reichsrat, aiming for a system based on Christian principles and democratic representation.

What was Goerdeler's view on the potential role of Field Marshal Erwin Rommel in a post-Hitler government?

Goerdeler saw Field Marshal Erwin Rommel as an ideal candidate to play a leading role in a post-Hitler government. He sent Karl Strölin to gauge Rommel's willingness to join the conspiracy, and while Rommel was unwilling to participate in Hitler's assassination, he indicated readiness to serve in a government led by Goerdeler.

What were Goerdeler's concerns regarding the Atlantic Charter in 1941?

In August 1941, Goerdeler expressed disappointment with the Atlantic Charter, particularly its demand for German disarmament. He felt this demand would make it harder to recruit the German Army for the overthrow of the Nazi regime and was unacceptable to him, as he believed in maintaining a strong military.

How did Goerdeler attempt to influence the German economy and foreign policy through his memoranda?

Goerdeler submitted numerous memoranda to Hitler and other Nazi leaders, offering advice on economic policy and foreign relations. He urged a shift away from rearmament towards food imports, advocated for free-market principles, and warned of economic collapse due to Nazi policies. He also called for changes in the regime's approach to the 'Jewish Question,' freemasonry, legal security, and the Church to improve Germany's international standing.

What was Goerdeler's stance on the Soviet Union and Communism in relation to his foreign policy ideas?

Goerdeler was strongly anticommunist and viewed Communism as fundamentally similar to National Socialism. He belonged to the "Westerners" faction within the German opposition, favoring an alignment with Britain and the United States after Hitler's potential overthrow, and regarded the "Easterners" who favored cooperation with the Soviet Union as dangerously naive.

What specific territorial demands did Goerdeler make to foreign powers regarding a post-Nazi Germany?

In his discussions with foreign powers, Goerdeler demanded the return of territories to Germany, including the Sudetenland, the Polish Corridor, Memelland (Klaipėda), the Free City of Danzig, and the former German colonies in Africa. He also proposed that Austria and the Sudetenland remain part of the Reich and suggested the annexation of the South Tyrol region from Italy.

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Overview

A Conservative Statesman

Carl Friedrich Goerdeler (1884–1945) was a prominent German conservative politician, monarchist, economist, and civil servant. He served as the Mayor of Leipzig from 1930 to 1937 and held the position of Reich Price Commissioner. Deeply rooted in Prussian tradition and Lutheran faith, Goerdeler initially sought to influence the Nazi regime from within, advocating for sound economic policies and opposing its anti-Jewish measures.

Opposition to Tyranny

As the Nazi regime's policies grew increasingly radical and destructive, Goerdeler became a leading figure in the German resistance. He actively worked to build a coalition against Hitler, engaging with military leaders, diplomats, and intellectuals. His opposition stemmed from a fundamental disagreement with the regime's ideology, its economic mismanagement, and its escalating aggression.

Sacrifice and Legacy

Goerdeler was a central conspirator in the 20 July 1944 plot to assassinate Hitler and overthrow the Nazi government, with plans for him to serve as Chancellor. Following the plot's failure, he was arrested, tortured, and ultimately executed by hanging on February 2, 1945. His actions, though ultimately unsuccessful in preventing Nazi atrocities, represent a significant moral stand against totalitarianism.

Early Life and Career

Prussian Roots and Formation

Born in Schneidemühl, Province of Posen, in 1884, Goerdeler hailed from a family of Prussian civil servants. His upbringing was characterized by culture, devout Lutheranism, nationalism, and conservatism. His personal motto, *omnia restaurare in Christo* ("to restore all things in Christ"), underscored his deep-seated moral and religious convictions. He pursued studies in economics and law at the University of Tübingen before embarking on a career in municipal administration.

Public Service and Political Beginnings

Goerdeler served in the German army during World War I, reaching the rank of captain. Post-war, he entered local government, becoming Mayor of Königsberg in 1922 and later Mayor of Leipzig in 1930. During the Weimar Republic, he was recognized for his administrative capabilities and commitment to public service. He also served as Reich Price Commissioner, tasked with implementing deflationary policies, demonstrating his early engagement with national economic challenges.

Navigating Political Shifts

Initially affiliated with the conservative German National People's Party (DNVP), Goerdeler opposed the Treaty of Versailles. His political views evolved, leading him to resign from the DNVP due to its leadership's opposition to the Brüning government. By the early 1930s, he began to advocate for a conservative revolution to replace the perceived failures of the Weimar Republic, a stance that would later complicate his relationship with the rising Nazi movement.

Role in the Nazi Government

Initial Sympathy and Growing Disillusionment

In the early years of the Third Reich, Goerdeler harbored a degree of hope that Adolf Hitler, whom he initially viewed as an "enlightened dictator," could be guided towards constructive policies. He attempted to influence the regime through extensive memoranda on economic matters and by intervening, albeit with limited success, against the persecution of Jewish citizens in Leipzig. However, by the mid-1930s, rampant corruption and the regime's increasingly irresponsible economic and foreign policies led to profound disillusionment.

Economic Disagreements and Resignation

As Reich Price Commissioner, Goerdeler frequently clashed with figures like Hjalmar Schacht over inflationary policies and rearmament spending. He warned Hitler about the potential for economic collapse and advocated for free-market principles and reduced military expenditure. These fundamental disagreements, coupled with his distaste for Nazi racial laws and the demolition of a monument to Felix Mendelssohn, culminated in his resignation as Mayor of Leipzig in March 1937.

Transition to Opposition

Following his departure from public office, Goerdeler took a position at Robert Bosch GmbH. This role provided him with a degree of freedom and cover to engage more directly in anti-Nazi activities. His disillusionment solidified into a commitment to actively work towards the overthrow of the regime, marking a significant shift from his earlier attempts at reform from within.

Opposition and Resistance

International Diplomacy and Warnings

From 1937 onwards, Goerdeler became a key figure in the German resistance, leveraging his international contacts. He traveled extensively, meeting with British and American officials, including Winston Churchill and Sir Robert Vansittart, to warn them about Hitler's aggressive foreign policy and the dangers of appeasement. He provided intelligence, often referred to as the "X Documents," detailing Nazi intentions and internal German conditions.

Building a Network

Goerdeler meticulously cultivated a network of like-minded individuals, including military officers like General Ludwig Beck and Colonel Hans Oster, diplomats like Ulrich von Hassell, and intellectuals from groups like the Freiburg Circle. His aim was to forge a unified opposition capable of acting decisively against the Nazi regime. He also sought to engage with social democrats, broadening the base of the resistance.

Policy Proposals and Controversies

Goerdeler developed detailed plans for a post-Nazi Germany, advocating for a constitutional monarchy and a reformed political and economic system. However, his proposals were not without controversy. His memo suggesting the deportation of most European Jews to a new state, while defended by some as an attempt to find an alternative to genocide, has drawn criticism for its perceived anti-Semitism. His strong German nationalism and demands for territorial concessions also complicated his relationships with foreign allies.

The 20 July Plot and Future Vision

Central Role in the Coup Attempt

Goerdeler was a principal architect of the 20 July 1944 plot, a daring attempt to assassinate Hitler and dismantle the Nazi state. He was designated to serve as Chancellor in the provisional government that would have been established had the coup succeeded. His extensive planning and recruitment efforts were crucial to the conspiracy's organization.

Blueprint for a New Germany

In anticipation of the regime's downfall, Goerdeler and his associates developed comprehensive plans for Germany's future. These included a draft constitution envisioning a constitutional monarchy with a strong, but limited, executive and a reformed legislature. Discussions also focused on potential candidates for the throne, with Goerdeler favoring Prince Oskar of Prussia, reflecting a desire to restore a sense of order and tradition.

Disappointment with Military Inaction

Throughout his resistance activities, Goerdeler frequently expressed frustration with the German Army's reluctance to act against Hitler. He believed that the military leadership, despite their private reservations, lacked the courage and conviction to stage a decisive coup. This perceived passivity, particularly among senior officers, was a significant impediment to the resistance's efforts.

Arrest and Execution

Capture and Interrogation

Following the failure of the 20 July plot, Goerdeler was apprehended by the Gestapo. Under intense interrogation and torture, he divulged the names of numerous co-conspirators. This information led to the arrest and execution of hundreds of individuals, a tragic consequence that weighed heavily on the legacy of the resistance movement.

Final Moments

Goerdeler was tried by the People's Court (Volksgerichtshof) and sentenced to death. He was executed by hanging on February 2, 1945, at Plötzensee Prison in Berlin. His death marked the end of a life dedicated to public service and, ultimately, to the courageous opposition of a brutal dictatorship.

Legacy and Historical Assessment

A Complex Figure

Carl Friedrich Goerdeler is remembered as a significant, albeit complex, figure in the German resistance. His unwavering opposition to Nazism, his attempts to forge a broad coalition, and his ultimate sacrifice are widely acknowledged. However, historical assessments also grapple with the controversies surrounding his actions, including his early political views, his memo on the Jewish question, and the impact of his disclosures after arrest.

Enduring Significance

Goerdeler's life serves as a case study in moral courage and the challenges of political opposition within a totalitarian state. His efforts to articulate a vision for a post-Nazi Germany highlight the intellectual and moral debates that animated the resistance. His story underscores the profound personal risks undertaken by those who dared to challenge tyranny, offering valuable insights for students of history, political science, and ethics.

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References

Murray, Williamson & Millett, Alan A War to Be Won, Belknap Press: Cambridge, MA, 2000 page 53.

GedenkstÃ¤tte Deutscher Widerstand

A full list of references for this article are available at the Carl Friedrich Goerdeler Wikipedia page

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This content has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, drawing upon historical data and academic analysis. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the provided source material, the information presented is based on a specific interpretation and may not encompass all nuances or scholarly debates surrounding Carl Friedrich Goerdeler and the German resistance. Historical figures and events are complex, and this resource serves as an educational introduction rather than a definitive historical account.

This is not professional historical or political advice. The information provided herein is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for rigorous academic research or consultation with qualified historians. Always consult primary sources and diverse scholarly interpretations when engaging with complex historical subjects.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Carl Friedrich Goerdeler

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Overview ℹ️

🇩🇪 A Conservative Statesman

✊ Opposition to Tyranny

⚖️ Sacrifice and Legacy

Early Life and Career 🎓

📜 Prussian Roots and Formation

🏛️ Public Service and Political Beginnings

🌍 Navigating Political Shifts

Role in the Nazi Government 🏛️

🤔 Initial Sympathy and Growing Disillusionment

📉 Economic Disagreements and Resignation

💼 Transition to Opposition

Opposition and Resistance ✊

🌐 International Diplomacy and Warnings

🤝 Building a Network

📜 Policy Proposals and Controversies

The 20 July Plot and Future Vision 💣

🎯 Central Role in the Coup Attempt

👑 Blueprint for a New Germany

😔 Disappointment with Military Inaction

Arrest and Execution ⚖️

⛓️ Capture and Interrogation

💀 Final Moments

Legacy and Historical Assessment ⭐

🤔 A Complex Figure

📚 Enduring Significance

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

A Conservative Statesman

Opposition to Tyranny

Sacrifice and Legacy

Early Life and Career

Prussian Roots and Formation

Public Service and Political Beginnings

Navigating Political Shifts

Role in the Nazi Government

Initial Sympathy and Growing Disillusionment

Economic Disagreements and Resignation

Transition to Opposition

Opposition and Resistance

International Diplomacy and Warnings

Building a Network

Policy Proposals and Controversies

The 20 July Plot and Future Vision

Central Role in the Coup Attempt

Blueprint for a New Germany

Disappointment with Military Inaction

Arrest and Execution

Capture and Interrogation

Final Moments

Legacy and Historical Assessment

A Complex Figure

Enduring Significance

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice for the Reader