Introduction
Hermann Göring, once a dashing and young war veteran, evolved into an extravagant, heartless, obese, and drug-addled figure during his association with the Nazi regime. As the leader of the German Luftwaffe, Göring amassed significant wealth and power, becoming a prominent member of Adolf Hitler’s inner circle. This article delves into Göring’s transformation from a decorated World War I pilot to a notorious Nazi figure and examines the factors that contributed to his rise as a billionaire.
Early Life, Military Career, Nazi Association
Born on January 12, 1893, in Rosenheim, Germany, Hermann Göring grew up in a privileged family. He displayed a passion for flying and joined the German air force during World War I. Göring distinguished himself as a skilled pilot, earning respect and accolades for his bravery in combat. After the war, he found himself disillusioned and unemployed, struggling to adapt to civilian life.
In the early 1920s, Göring encountered Adolf Hitler and joined the burgeoning Nazi Party. Göring’s military background and charismatic personality made him an asset to the party, and he quickly rose through the ranks. He participated in the failed Beer Hall Putsch in 1923 but managed to escape prosecution.
Göring’s association with the Nazi Party granted him access to influential circles, where he developed close relationships with wealthy industrialists and businessmen. These connections would prove instrumental in his accumulation of vast wealth and influence.
Rise to Power and Leadership of the Luftwaffe
With the ascension of Hitler to power in 1933, Göring’s career entered a new phase. He was appointed as the Minister of the Interior and became the head of the newly formed Gestapo, the secret police force of Nazi Germany. Göring’s role expanded further when he was entrusted with the establishment and leadership of the German Luftwaffe, the air force of Nazi Germany.
Under Göring’s command, the Luftwaffe rapidly grew in strength, becoming a formidable military force. He implemented innovative strategies and technologies, such as the widespread use of dive bombers, which proved instrumental in the early successes of Nazi Germany during World War II. Göring’s achievements as the head of the Luftwaffe cemented his position as one of Hitler’s most trusted confidants.
Wealth Accumulation, Extravagant Lifestyle, Health Issues
As Göring rose in power, he exploited his position to accumulate immense personal wealth. He confiscated Jewish-owned properties and looted art treasures from occupied territories, amassing a vast collection for himself. Göring’s greed knew no bounds, and he shamelessly exploited his authority and connections to fulfill his extravagant desires.
His luxurious lifestyle was marked by opulent residences, a private train, and an extensive collection of valuable possessions, including expensive cars, jewelry, and artwork. Göring spared no expense when it came to indulging his lavish tastes, which extended to his clothing and parties.
Göring’s opulence was matched by his deteriorating physical and mental health. He developed a severe addiction to painkillers, particularly morphine, which exacerbated his already problematic weight. Over time, Göring’s drug addiction and overeating led to his obesity, earning him the nickname “Der Dicke” (The Fat One) among his contemporaries.
The Downfall of Hermann Göring
As World War II progressed and Nazi Germany faced mounting setbacks, Göring’s leadership came under scrutiny. His overconfidence and poor decision-making during the war contributed to the Luftwaffe’s decline. Hitler increasingly distanced himself from Göring, recognizing his incompetence and unreliability.
In 1943, Göring’s diminishing influence was further highlighted when Hitler appointed other military leaders to take over key strategic operations. Göring’s extravagant lifestyle and corruption had become increasingly apparent, and Hitler grew disillusioned with his former confidant. The tide of the war had turned against Germany, and Göring’s reputation as a military leader was tarnished.
As Allied forces closed in on Nazi Germany, Göring attempted to negotiate a separate peace with the Allies, betraying Hitler’s trust. This act of treachery led to his expulsion from Hitler’s inner circle, and he was stripped of his positions and titles. Göring was later arrested by the Allies and stood trial at the Nuremberg Trials for war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The Trail and Legacy of Hermann Göring
During the trial, Göring’s true character was exposed to the world. His arrogance, greed, and disregard for human life were laid bare. Despite attempting to portray himself as a victim of circumstance, Göring was found guilty and sentenced to death by hanging. However, he evaded execution by committing suicide in his prison cell on October 15, 1946.
The legacy of Hermann Göring remains one of infamy and villainy. His transformation from a decorated war veteran to an extravagant, heartless Nazi billionaire is a testament to the corrupting influence of power. Göring’s insatiable greed and addiction to drugs further exacerbated his descent into moral bankruptcy.
His association with the Nazi Party and leadership of the Luftwaffe allowed him to amass great wealth, often through illicit means such as looting and confiscation. Göring’s extravagant lifestyle and opulent possessions serve as a stark reminder of the depths to which he sank in his pursuit of personal gain.
Today, Göring’s name is synonymous with the atrocities committed during the Nazi regime. His role in implementing Hitler’s genocidal policies, particularly regarding the persecution and extermination of Jews, is an indelible stain on history. The billions amassed by Göring are a stark contrast to the immense human suffering and loss of life that occurred under his watch.
Conclusion
Hermann Göring’s transformation from a dashing war hero to a heartless, drug-addled Nazi billionaire is a cautionary tale of the corrupting nature of power. His association with the Nazi Party and leadership of the Luftwaffe allowed him to accumulate vast wealth, while his extravagant lifestyle and addiction further exemplified his moral decay. Göring’s legacy is one of infamy and serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed during the Nazi regime.
