Defying Hitler: A Memoir by Sebastian Haffner (Hardcover)

“Defying Hitler: A Memoir” is a book written by Sebastian Haffner, a German journalist and author who lived through the rise of Nazi Germany. The book was originally published in German in 1969, and it was translated into English in 2002.

The book is a personal memoir that offers a firsthand account of life in Germany during the 1920s and 1930s, as Hitler and the Nazi Party came to power. Haffner describes his own experiences as a young man growing up in Berlin, and he offers a vivid portrait of the social, political, and cultural climate of the time.

One of the key themes of the book is the gradual erosion of civil liberties and the rule of law in Germany, as the Nazis consolidated their power and suppressed dissent. Haffner describes the atmosphere of fear and intimidation that prevailed, as well as the growing sense of resignation and despair among ordinary Germans.

Despite the grim picture he paints, Haffner’s memoir is also a testament to the courage and resilience of those who defied Hitler and resisted his regime. He describes his own efforts to resist the Nazis, as well as the efforts of others who risked their lives to protect Jews and other targets of Nazi persecution.

Overall, “Defying Hitler” is a powerful and moving memoir that offers a unique perspective on one of the darkest periods in modern history. It is likely to be of interest to anyone who is interested in the history of Nazi Germany, as well as those who are interested in the human stories behind the events of that time.