During World War II, Adolf Hitler ordered the destruction of Paris, a city he believed should not be left standing if Germany lost the war. However, one general refused to carry out this command – General Dietrich von Choltitz.
Who was General Dietrich von Choltitz?
Dietrich von Choltitz was a German general during World War II. He was appointed as the military governor of Paris in August 1944, just a few weeks before the Allies liberated the city.
Why did Hitler order the destruction of Paris?
Hitler was furious over the liberation of Paris by Allied forces and ordered that it be destroyed. He believed that if Germany could not have control over the city, then no one should.
What happened when General von Choltitz received Hitler’s order?
Von Choltitz initially obeyed Hitler’s order and began preparing for the destruction of Paris. However, as he spent more time in the city, he began to appreciate its beauty and cultural significance. He also started to question Hitler’s judgment and motives.
What made von Choltitz change his mind?
Von Choltitz received an order from Hitler on August 25th to destroy all bridges over the Seine River and key buildings in Paris. Von Choltitz hesitated and decided to contact Swedish diplomat Raoul Nordling who had been working behind-the-scenes to negotiate with von Choltitz for sparing Paris from destruction.
Nordling convinced von Choltitz that destroying Paris would be an act of senseless vandalism and would only lead to more bloodshed. He also assured him that if he saved Paris from demolition, it would bring him personal glory and respect from both Germans and French people alike.
What happened next?
On August 25th, 1944, Von Choltitz disobeyed Hitler’s order and refused to destroy Paris. He surrendered the city instead to the Allies, thus saving it from destruction.
What was the aftermath of von Choltitz’s decision?
Von Choltitz’s decision to spare Paris from destruction earned him the admiration of both Germans and French people. After being captured by Allied forces, he was praised for his act of bravery and spared from prosecution at the Nuremberg Trials.
In conclusion, General Dietrich von Choltitz’s decision to disobey Hitler’s order to destroy Paris was a significant act of defiance during World War II. It saved one of the world’s most beautiful cities from senseless destruction and demonstrated that even in times of war, humanity and reason can prevail over destruction and hatred.
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