Stauffenberg Assassination Attempt on Hitler and Attempted Coup on 20 July 1944: A Turning Point in WWII.
Stauffenberg Assassination Attempt on Hitler and Attempted Coup on 20 July 1944
Table of Contents
On July 20, 1944, there was a bold attempt to change the course of World War II. Claus von Stauffenberg and several other German officers tried to assassinate Adolf Hitler at his Wolf’s Lair headquarters. The plan was to kill Hitler with a bomb hidden in a briefcase and then overthrow the Nazi regime.
Stauffenberg placed the briefcase under the table in Hitler’s briefing room. Unbeknownst to him, the briefcase was moved just before it detonated, which ultimately saved Hitler’s life. Despite the explosion, Hitler survived, and the coup failed to gain immediate traction.
This event, known as the 20 July plot, showcased the deep rifts within the Nazi regime and the extent of opposition to Hitler among high-ranking military officials. The consequences were severe, with many of the plotters being executed in the aftermath.
Historical Background
Before the assassination attempt on Adolf Hitler by Claus von Stauffenberg on 20 July 1944, several important events and circumstances shaped the context. This includes the rise of the Nazi regime and the development of German resistance against Hitler.
Rise of the Nazi Regime and World War II
Adolf Hitler became chancellor of Germany in January 1933. After starting World War II in 1939, Nazi Germany initially saw great military successes.
The Nazis quickly conquered much of Europe, including France, Poland, and Norway. Despite this early success, the tide turned after the failed invasion of Russia and the entry of the United States into the war.
By 1943, Germany faced significant defeats, such as the Battle of Stalingrad. This became a turning point that reduced Nazi power and increased dissatisfaction among German leaders and the public. The worsening military situation spurred some to actively oppose Hitler’s leadership.
Development of German Resistance
The opposition to Hitler grew stronger as Germany’s fortunes declined in the war. Various German military leaders and civilians, disillusioned with Hitler’s disastrous strategies, started to form resistance groups. These groups aimed to remove Hitler from power and negotiate peace with the Allies.
One of the notable figures in this movement was Claus von Stauffenberg, a high-ranking officer. Stauffenberg and other conspirators believed that assassinating Hitler was crucial for ending Nazi control and saving Germany from complete destruction. Despite their differing motivations, they united under a common goal: the elimination of Hitler and the dismantling of the Nazi regime.
This coordinated effort led to the infamous attempt on Hitler’s life on 20 July 1944, where Stauffenberg placed a bomb in Hitler’s briefing room at the Wolf’s Lair.
Key Figures in the Assassination Attempt
Claus Schenk Graf Von Stauffenberg
Claus Schenk Graf Von Stauffenberg was the leading figure in the plot. He was a colonel in the Wehrmacht and had direct access to Hitler. On 20 July 1944, he planted a bomb in a briefcase and placed it near Hitler during a meeting. Though the bomb detonated, Hitler survived with minor injuries. Stauffenberg’s bravery was central to the attempt, as he risked his life to carry out the plot. His actions and leadership inspired others to join the effort to end Nazi rule.
Henning Von Tresckow
Henning Von Tresckow was another significant figure in the resistance. Serving as a major general, he was instrumental in organizing the plot’s logistics and gathering support from other officers. Tresckow had long been opposed to Hitler and played a key role in earlier coup attempts. His strategic mind and connections within the military made him a vital part of the operation. Tresckow’s commitment to the cause was unwavering, and he worked tirelessly to recruit like-minded officers.
Friedrich Olbricht
General Friedrich Olbricht was one of the main military leaders involved in the plot. He helped coordinate Operation Valkyrie, the plan to use the Reserve Army to seize control of Berlin once Hitler was dead. Olbricht’s role included rallying the Reserve Army and ensuring a swift takeover of key positions in the government. Despite the plot’s failure, Olbricht’s efforts demonstrated his dedication to stopping Hitler and ending the war.
Other Conspirators
Other conspirators played vital roles in the plot as well. This group included both military and civilian members who believed in the necessity of ending Hitler’s regime. Notable names include Ludwig Beck, a former Chief of the General Staff, and Carl Goerdeler, a former Mayor of Leipzig. These individuals provided support in planning and aimed to take on leadership roles in the new government. Their collaboration with Stauffenberg, Tresckow, and Olbricht showcased a broad coalition united against tyranny.
Planning the Assassination
Operation Valkyrie
Operation Valkyrie was the code name for the coup designed to overthrow the Nazi government after Hitler’s death. German military leaders devised this plan initially as an emergency response to maintain order if Hitler were incapacitated or killed.
The operation was modified by conspirators to make it a tool for their plot. They sought to use the Reserve Army to arrest key Nazi officials and seize control of government operations. This part of the plan required precise timing and coordination among several high-ranking officers who were in on the conspiracy.
The Final Strategy
The final strategy to kill Hitler included placing a bomb during one of his meetings. On July 20, 1944, Claus von Stauffenberg carried out the assassination attempt. He placed a briefcase with explosives under the table in Hitler’s briefing room at the Wolf’s Lair.
Stauffenberg had only armed one of two bombs due to time constraints. The briefcase was moved slightly, which muted the explosion’s impact. Although the bomb detonated, Hitler survived with minor injuries. This failure was crucial as it led to the unraveling of the conspiracy and the eventual executions of the plotters.
Details of this attempt highlight the meticulous yet ultimately flawed execution of the plan. The conspirators almost succeeded but failed due to unforeseen circumstances and critical mistakes.
The July 20 Plot
The July 20 Plot was a significant event during World War II, aimed at assassinating Adolf Hitler and overthrowing the Nazi regime. The plan involved a group of German officers and civilians seeking to change the course of the war.
Execution of the Assassination Attempt
On July 20, 1944, Claus von Stauffenberg placed a bomb in Hitler’s briefing room at the Wolf’s Lair in Rastenburg, East Prussia. The bomb was concealed in a briefcase. Stauffenberg left the room shortly before the explosion, believing that the bomb would kill Hitler.
The bomb detonated, causing significant damage and killing four people. Despite the destruction, Hitler survived with only minor injuries. The conference table had deflected much of the blast away from him. The failure of the bomb to kill Hitler was a critical setback for the conspirators.
Immediate Response and Crackdown
After the failed assassination attempt, Hitler quickly responded. He appeared on the radio to prove he was alive, boosting morale among his followers. The Gestapo and SS swiftly moved to arrest those involved.
Stauffenberg and many of his co-conspirators were captured and executed shortly after. The crackdown extended to hundreds of suspected conspirators. Trials were held, leading to numerous executions and imprisonments. This effectively crushed the hopes of the German resistance to topple the Nazi regime from within.
Aftermath of the Attempted Assassination
The failed attempt to assassinate Adolf Hitler on July 20, 1944, led to severe repercussions for the conspirators and widespread changes within the Nazi regime. These events had a profound impact on the resistance movement and the course of World War II.
Arrests and Executions
Following the attempt, a large number of conspirators were swiftly arrested by the Gestapo. Claus von Stauffenberg, the leader of the plot, was captured and executed by firing squad on the same day. The arrests didn’t stop there, as the Gestapo swept across Germany, detaining anyone suspected of being involved.
High-profile trials were conducted by the People’s Court, led by the notorious judge Roland Freisler. More than 200 people were executed as a result. The brutal crackdown aimed to eliminate any traces of resistance within the Wehrmacht and the broader German society.
Impact on the Nazi Regime
The attempt solidified Hitler’s grip on power. He used the failed coup as an opportunity to purge the military and the Nazi party of any dissenting voices. Hitler increased the power of the SS, allowing them to overtake many responsibilities of the traditional army.
This centralization of power also resulted in harsher measures against perceived enemies. The eastern front saw more aggressive tactics as the Nazis tried to regain momentum. Internally, the regime tightened its control, making life more oppressive for the German people.
Historical Significance and Legacy
The July 20 plot remains significant in history as one of the most notable acts of resistance within Nazi Germany. Despite its failure, the bravery of the conspirators inspired future generations. The attempted coup showcased that not all Germans supported the Nazi regime, highlighting the internal opposition against Hitler.
The legacy of the plot is commemorated in Germany today, especially by the military, as a symbol of moral courage. Figures like Claus von Stauffenberg are remembered for their attempts to bring down a tyrannical regime, even at the cost of their own lives. The event serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities within German society during World War II.
Valkyrie’s Aftermath and Subsequent Events
The failed assassination attempt on Adolf Hitler led to swift and brutal repercussions. The Gestapo wasted no time in hunting down the plotters, and the Nazi regime tightened its grip on power even further.
Failed Coup d’État
After Claus von Stauffenberg’s bomb failed to kill Hitler, the conspirators attempted to seize control of the government. The plan, known as Operation Valkyrie, aimed to mobilize reserve army units to secure strategic points in Berlin and other cities.
The coup quickly unraveled. Communication problems and loyalty to Hitler among key military leaders stymied the conspirators. By the evening, the plot was in disarray, and the coup had failed.
The Fate of the Conspirators
Following the failed assassination and coup, the conspirators faced severe repercussions. Leaders like Claus von Stauffenberg and Friedrich Olbricht were arrested and executed by firing squad at the Bendlerblock in Berlin.
Many other conspirators were tried, and some chose to commit suicide rather than face Nazi retribution. The trials were swift, with many receiving death sentences or long prison terms. This eradicated much of the effective resistance within Germany.
Reactions in Germany and Beyond
The Nazi regime used the failed plot to justify a harsh crackdown on any opposition. The Gestapo arrested thousands, many with no direct connection to the plot. Propaganda framed the conspirators as traitors, cementing loyalty to Hitler among many Germans.
Internationally, the failed coup confirmed the Allies’ view of the difficulty of overthrowing Hitler from within. It showed that while there was resistance, it lacked the strength to achieve its goals. The failure of Valkyrie marked a critical moment in the German resistance against the Nazi regime.
The events following July 20, 1944, underscored the immense risks taken by those who opposed Hitler and highlighted the regime’s brutal response to dissent.
Analysis of the Assassination’s Failures
The assassination attempt on Adolf Hitler on July 20, 1944, failed due to various reasons, primarily involving crucial missteps and operational challenges. These failures were rooted in uncontrollable factors and poor execution of certain elements.
Reasons for the Plot’s Downfall
One major reason for the plot’s failure was the positioning of the bomb. Claus von Stauffenberg placed it in a briefcase under the table in Hitler’s briefing room at Wolf’s Lair. The briefcase was moved, and the bomb detonated away from Hitler, who was shielded by the heavy support of the table leg.
Another key issue was the lack of synchronized actions among the plotters. Not all conspirators across Germany acted simultaneously, weakening the overall effort. Many military officers, fearing repercussions from the Gestapo, hesitated to act, reducing the plot’s effectiveness.
The failure to kill key Nazi leaders besides Hitler also played a significant role. While some leaders were targets, only Hitler’s death would ensure a complete overthrow. Their survival allowed the Nazi regime to quickly regain control, undermining the entire operation.
Operational Challenges and Missteps
The plot faced significant operational challenges. One such challenge was arming the second bomb. Stauffenberg intended to use two bombs but only had time to arm one. This reduced the explosive impact and increased the chances of Hitler surviving.
At the same time, the meeting was moved from the bunker to a barrack with open windows due to the intense heat, where the blast waves from the explosion could escape much more easily without causing any damage.
Communication breakdowns during the execution of Operation Valkyrie also hindered the coup. Poor coordination meant that orders were delayed or misunderstood, causing confusion among the troops tasked with seizing control.
The decision to launch the operation despite uncertain outcomes was another crucial misstep. Stauffenberg left Wolf’s Lair believing Hitler was dead, thus prematurely initiating the coup. When news emerged that Hitler survived, the conspirators were unable to adjust their plans quickly.
Perspectives on the 20 July Plot
The 20 July Plot raised significant ethical questions and sparked extensive academic debates. This section explores the moral viewpoints and the historical analyses surrounding this audacious event.
Ethical and Moral Viewpoints
The 20 July Plot is often seen through contrasting ethical and moral lenses. On one side, many conservative and nationalist Germans viewed the conspirators, like Claus von Stauffenberg, as traitors who betrayed their military oath. These critics argue that the plotters undermined the chain of command during wartime, which was essential for national unity.
In contrast, others, including many Catholic and civilian groups, saw the assassins as heroes. They believed the plotters’ moral duty to stop the Nazi regime justified their actions. These perspectives highlight a deep divide in how the plot is perceived—either as a legitimate act of resistance or as an unlawful betrayal.
Historiography and Academic Debates
Academic analysis of the 20 July Plot has evolved over the decades. Historians have debated the effectiveness and motives of the plotters. Some argue that the military officers involved were primarily motivated by Germany’s deteriorating military situation and hoped for more favorable peace terms with the Allies.
Others suggest that the plotters were driven by moral outrage against Nazi atrocities. The historical analysis often considers the context of civilian opinion during that period, showcasing a complex web of motivations and consequences.
Furthermore, Western Allies’ involvement, or lack thereof, in supporting such internal German resistance has also been scrutinized. These debates continue to shape our understanding of the 20 July Plot and its place in history.
Comparative Insights
The Stauffenberg assassination attempt on Hitler was part of broader efforts by the German resistance to challenge the brutal Nazi regime. This section explores similar movements and how the attempt influenced later assassination plots.
Similar Resistance Movements
Several resistance movements within Germany and across occupied territories also sought to end the war and Nazi control. For example, the White Rose Movement in Germany, formed by university students, distributed leaflets opposing Nazi policies and actions like the Holocaust.
In occupied regions, groups like the Polish Home Army resisted German occupation, conducting sabotage and intelligence operations. Another notable group was the French Resistance, which significantly disrupted German supply lines and aided Allied forces.
These groups, though different in methods, shared the goal of dismantling Nazi power and ending mass murder and oppression.
Impact on Later Assassination Attempts
The 20 July plot had a substantial impact on subsequent assassination attempts. The plan’s failure showcased the need for meticulous planning and the importance of careful execution. This influenced later efforts, emphasizing the importance of eliminating high-ranking officials quickly to disrupt Nazi command structures.
For example, post-war, numerous assassination attempts were planned against other oppressive regimes, including Soviet leaders, where lessons from the Stauffenberg plot were considered. The plot highlighted risks and logistical challenges, thus deeply informing resistance strategies for future movements aiming to overthrow tyrannical governments.
Frequently Asked Questions
The failed assassination attempt on Adolf Hitler by Claus von Stauffenberg and the subsequent attempted coup on July 20, 1944, involved many key figures and had significant repercussions.
Who were the key members involved in the July 20 plot?
The key members of the July 20 plot included Claus von Stauffenberg, Henning von Tresckow, and General Friedrich Olbricht. Many of them were high-ranking Wehrmacht officers who believed Hitler’s actions were leading Germany to ruin.
What were the intentions behind Operation Valkyrie?
Operation Valkyrie aimed to assassinate Hitler and overthrow the Nazi regime. The conspirators wanted to take control of the German government and negotiate more favorable peace terms with the Allies, believing this was the only way to end the war and save Germany.
How were the participants in the July 20 plot executed and who was responsible for their executions?
After the failed assassination attempt, the participants, including Stauffenberg, were executed by firing squads on the orders of Fromm, the commander of the reserve army who had previously been arrested by the putschists and was an accomplice. Heinrich Himmler, the head of the SS, was responsible for the brutal suppression of the conspiracy and ensured that those involved were punished swiftly and severely.
What were Claus von Stauffenberg’s last words?
Before his execution, Claus von Stauffenberg is reported to have shouted, ‘Long live our sacred Germany!’ These words reflected his belief in a better future for Germany, free from Nazi tyranny.
How did the events of July 20, 1944, unfold and what was the outcome?
On July 20, 1944, Stauffenberg placed a bomb in a briefcase under the table during a meeting at the Wolf’s Lair. The briefcase was moved, and although the bomb detonated, it failed to kill Hitler. As a result, the coup failed, and the conspirators were swiftly arrested and executed.
What were the repercussions for Stauffenberg’s family following the failed assassination attempt?
Stauffenberg’s family faced severe repercussions. His wife, Nina, was arrested and their children were taken away. Although they were later released, the family had to live with the stigma and the consequences of Stauffenberg’s involvement in the plot.
References and literature
World War II – A Statistical Survey (John Ellis)
Das Deutsche Reich und der Zweite Weltkrieg (10 Bände, Zentrum für Militärgeschichte)
Der 2. Weltkrieg (C. Bertelsmann Verlag)
Zweiter Weltkrieg in Bildern (Mathias Färber)
Illustrierte Geschichte des Dritte Reiches (Kurt Zentner)
Unser Jahrhundert im Bild (Bertelsmann Lesering)
A World at Arms – A Global History of World War II (Gerhard L. Weinberg)
