Albert Speer

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Bundesarchiv Bild 146II-277, Albert Speer.jpg Speer in 1933

Albert Speer (19 March 1905 – 1 September 1981) was a German architect who served as the Minister of Armaments and War Production in Nazi Germany during most of World War II. Speer was a close ally of Adolf Hitler and was sometimes referred to as "the Nazi who said sorry" due to his acceptance of responsibility at the Nuremberg Trials.

Early Life and Education

Albert Speer was born in Mannheim, Grand Duchy of Baden, German Empire. He was the second of three sons of Albert Friedrich Speer and Luise Máthilde Wilhelmine (Hommel) Speer. Speer initially pursued a career in architecture, studying at the Technical University of Berlin.

Career

Architect for the Nazi Party

Speer joined the Nazi Party in 1931 and quickly rose through the ranks due to his architectural skills. He became a member of Adolf Hitler's inner circle and was appointed as the chief architect of the Third Reich. Speer was responsible for designing several notable structures, including the Reich Chancellery and the Zeppelinfeld stadium in Nuremberg.

Minister of Armaments and War Production

In 1942, following the death of Fritz Todt, Speer was appointed as the Minister of Armaments and War Production. In this role, he significantly increased the production of armaments despite the Allied bombing campaign. Speer's organizational skills and use of forced labor were key factors in maintaining the German war effort.

Nuremberg Trials and Imprisonment

After the defeat of Nazi Germany, Speer was arrested and tried at the Nuremberg Trials. He was one of the few high-ranking officials to admit guilt and express remorse for his actions. Speer was sentenced to 20 years in prison, which he served at Spandau Prison in Berlin.

Later Life and Death

Upon his release in 1966, Speer published several books, including his memoirs, Inside the Third Reich, which provided a detailed account of his time in the Nazi regime. He died of a stroke in London, England, on 1 September 1981.

Legacy

Albert Speer's legacy is controversial. While he was a talented architect and efficient minister, his involvement in the Nazi regime and use of forced labor have marred his reputation. His writings have been both criticized and praised for their insights into the workings of the Nazi government.

See Also

• Nazi architecture
• Nuremberg Trials
• Spandau Prison
• Adolf Hitler