Nazi Germany's New Aristocracy

Main Themes and Topics

Nazi Germany's New Aristocracy by Herbert F. Ziegler delves into the intricate social origins and structures of the prewar SS leadership. The book is groundbreaking in its presentation, offering a detailed narrative that unveils the diverse backgrounds of individuals who rose to prominence within the SS ranks between 1925 and 1939. Ziegler's work illuminates how the SS, often perceived as a monolithic group, actually comprised a socially heterogeneous assembly of people. From educated Gymnasium and university graduates to former gardeners, mechanics, and office clerks, the SS-Führer ranks were populated by individuals from varied walks of life. The book lays bare the structure of the SS under Heinrich Himmler, describing it as a microcosm of society where upward social mobility was possible, likening some of its personnel practices to a form of democratic selection. Through his research, Ziegler questions and expands upon the traditional explanations of who supported National Socialism and why.

Writing Style and Tone

Herbert F. Ziegler's writing in Nazi Germany's New Aristocracy is scholarly and methodical, marked by thorough research and detailed exposition. His use of statistical analysis combined with anecdotal evidence from SS personnel files provides a robust framework for understanding the complex social dynamics within the SS leadership. The tone is analytical and objective, aimed at a scholarly audience while remaining accessible to readers interested in the social history of Nazi Germany. Ziegler's approach is both engaging and informative, making complex sociopolitical concepts comprehensible to a broader readership.

Awards and Recognition

Although originally published in 1990, Nazi Germany's New Aristocracy has been reissued through the Princeton Legacy Library, underscoring its lasting significance and scholarly contribution. The Princeton Legacy Library's endeavor to leverage print-on-demand technology to give new life to important works highlights the book's esteemed position in historical literature and its value as a resource for understanding the sociopolitical landscape of Nazi Germany.

Brief Summary

In Nazi Germany's New Aristocracy, Herbert F. Ziegler presents the first comprehensive study on the social origins of the SS leadership prior to World War II. By analyzing thousands of SS personnel files and employing statistical tools, Ziegler paints a nuanced picture of how individuals from diverse social backgrounds came together to form the SS-Führer ranks. The book provides insights into the internal dynamics of the SS, challenging the notion of its homogeneity and highlighting its role as a conduit for upward social mobility. Ziegler's exploration reveals the complex interplay between social reality and Nazi ideology, contributing valuable knowledge to the field of historical studies on National Socialism.