Friedrich Heinrich Geffcken German publicist, diplomat, lawyer. Date of Birth: 09.12.1830 Country: Germany

1. Heinrich von Geffcken: German Publicist, Diplomat, and Jurist
2. Early Life and Career
3. Conservative Critique of Bismarck
4. Publication of Crown Prince's Diary
5. Trial and Controversy
6. Impact on Bismarck
7. Later Works and Legacy

Heinrich von Geffcken: German Publicist, Diplomat, and Jurist

Heinrich von Geffcken was a prominent German publicist, diplomat, and jurist who played a controversial role in the politics of the late 19th century.

Early Life and Career

Born in Hamburg to a senatorial family, Geffcken studied law and pursued a diplomatic career. He served as Hanseatic minister-resident in Berlin and London, and later became a professor of political science in Strasbourg.

Conservative Critique of Bismarck

As an ultraconservative, Geffcken became a fierce opponent of Chancellor Otto von Bismarck. He criticized Bismarck's Kulturkampf, his Eastern policy, and his military laws, particularly in anonymous articles in the English journal "Contemporary Review."

Publication of Crown Prince's Diary

In 1888, Geffcken anonymously published in "Deutsche Rundschau" the diary of Crown Prince Frederick William (later Emperor Frederick III) from the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71. Geffcken had been entrusted with the diary for reading purposes but had secretly made a copy. The diary revealed that the Crown Prince had played a key role in the proclamation of the German Empire, contrary to Bismarck's claims.

Trial and Controversy

Bismarck accused Geffcken of forgery and divulging state secrets. Geffcken was arrested and brought to trial. The court confirmed the diary's authenticity but found that Geffcken had published it with omissions. Geffcken was acquitted due to insufficient evidence of criminal intent.

Impact on Bismarck

The court's verdict was seen as a blow to Bismarck. In response, he published the indictment against Geffcken in the "Imperial Gazette."

Later Works and Legacy

In addition to his political writings, Geffcken published a revised edition of Martens's "Guide Diplomatique" and an edition of Heffter's textbook on international law. His controversial role in the Geffcken Affair continues to be debated by historians.