Heinrich Himmler

Profession: Leading Nazi and Reichsführer of the SS

Nationality:

Biography: Heinrich Himmler was a German political and military leader, most notably serving as Reichsführer of the Schutzstaffel (SS) and his leading position within the Nazi Party. His contributions to the Holocaust and other atrocities mark him as one of the most infamous leaders of that period.

Himmler was the son of Joseph Gebhard Himmler, a teacher, and Anna Maria Himmler, and had two brothers, Gebhard Ludwig and Ernst Hermann. His upbringing in a conservative Catholic family was conventional, with Himmler excelling academically. Though interested in serving his country during World War I, he never saw combat as the war ended while he was still in training.

After World War I, Himmler pursued agricultural studies at the Munich Technische Hochschule. It was during this time that he began to associate with right-wing political groups. He became a member of the Nazi Party in 1923 and joined the SS in 1925.

Himmler's leadership qualities were recognized by Adolf Hitler, who appointed him as Reichsführer-SS in 1929. Under his command, the SS grew from a small unit into a formidable paramilitary organization, and Himmler's formidable organizational capabilities became evident.

His influence extended beyond the SS, with Himmler establishing control of the Gestapo, Kriminalpolizei, and the Waffen-SS, further consolidating his power. His interests in occultism would also come to influence Nazi racial ideology.

Himmler was a central figure in orchestrating the Holocaust, responsible for the deaths of six million Jews and the persecution of Romani people, among other groups. Additionally, he directed the genocidal Generalplan Ost, which aimed to resettle and exterminate vast numbers of people in Eastern Europe.

As World War II drew to a close and Germany faced defeat, Himmler attempted to negotiate a peace deal with the Western Allies without Hitler's consent. When Hitler learned of this, he stripped Himmler of his positions. Captured by British forces while trying to flee, Himmler committed suicide to avoid trial and punishment for his crimes.

Born: October 7, 1900
Birthplace: Munich, Germany

Generation: Lost Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Rat
Star Sign: Libra

Died: May 23, 1945 (aged 44)
Cause of Death: Committed suicide by cyanide poisoning after being captured by allied forces