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Paul GebbelsStatesman and political figure of Nazi Germany,
Date of Birth: 29.10.1897
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Literary Aspiration and Political Awakening
- Rise within the Nazi Party
- Chief Propagandist
- Hitler's Rise to Power
- Minister of Public Enlightenment and Propaganda
- Hitler's Close Confidant
- World War II and Total War
- Final Days
Early Life and Education
Paul Joseph Goebbels was born on October 29, 1897, in Rheydt, Rhineland. His father was a devout Catholic who aspired for his son to become a priest. However, Goebbels had dreams of becoming a writer or journalist. After attending elementary and secondary school, he pursued a degree in the humanities. With financial support from the Albert Magnus Society, Goebbels studied philosophy, German literature, history, and literature at several German universities from 1917 to 1921. He earned a doctorate in 1921 with a dissertation on Romantic drama.
Literary Aspiration and Political Awakening
Goebbels's literary works were repeatedly rejected by publishers. The onset of World War I found him unfit for military service due to a physical disability, which caused him deep resentment. Goebbels's political career began in 1922 when he joined the Nazi Party, initially aligning himself with its socialist wing. His journalistic career began in 1924 as an editor of newspapers in the Ruhr region.
Rise within the Nazi Party
In 1926, Goebbels's political views shifted dramatically in favor of Adolf Hitler. He became Hitler's fervent admirer, writing in his diary, "Adolf Hitler, I love you!" Goebbels's unwavering loyalty and his oratorical skills brought him to Hitler's attention. In 1926, Hitler appointed him Gauleiter of the Berlin-Brandenburg region.
Chief Propagandist
As editor of the Nazi weekly "Angriff" from 1927 to 1935, Goebbels became the chief agitator and propagandist for the party. His venomous attacks on Berlin's city government, Jews, and communists drew widespread attention. In 1929, Hitler appointed him the Nazi Party's Reich Propaganda Leader.
Hitler's Rise to Power
Goebbels played a crucial role in Hitler's ascent to political power. He orchestrated Hitler's presidential campaign in 1932, doubling his votes. His propaganda was instrumental in Hitler's appointment as Chancellor in 1933.
Minister of Public Enlightenment and Propaganda
On March 13, 1933, Hitler appointed Goebbels as Reich Minister of Public Enlightenment and Propaganda. He unleashed a campaign of Gleichschaltung, bringing every aspect of German life under Nazi control. Goebbels also led the infamous book burnings of 1933, targeting works by Jewish and anti-Nazi authors.
Hitler's Close Confidant
Goebbels became one of Hitler's most trusted advisors, along with Heinrich Himmler and Martin Bormann. He wielded significant influence within the Nazi leadership.
World War II and Total War
During World War II, Goebbels was tasked with maintaining the morale of the German people. His propaganda aimed to vilify the Soviet Union and implore Germans to fight until the bitter end.
Final Days
As Germany faced defeat, Goebbels remained loyal to Hitler. After Hitler's suicide, Goebbels briefly became his successor as Reich Chancellor. On April 30, 1945, with the Soviet army approaching Berlin, Goebbels and his wife, Magda, poisoned their six children and then committed suicide.
