Felix Kersten

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Felix Kersten (1898–1960) was a Finnish-born physical therapist who gained international fame for his work with Heinrich Himmler, one of the leading members of the Nazi Party during World War II. Kersten used his position and influence to save the lives of many individuals from Nazi persecution. His life and actions during the war have been a subject of both admiration and controversy.

Early Life

Felix Kersten was born on September 30, 1898, in Tallinn, which was then part of the Russian Empire and is now the capital of Estonia. Little is known about his early life before he moved to Germany to study massage and physical therapy. He became a student of Dr. Ko, a renowned practitioner of manual therapy and Eastern healing techniques. Kersten mastered these techniques and eventually developed his own method of treatment, which garnered him a reputation as an effective therapist.

Career and Work with Himmler

In the 1930s, Kersten moved to Berlin and established a successful practice. His patients included many high-ranking officials of the Nazi regime. In 1939, he was introduced to Heinrich Himmler, who was suffering from severe stomach pains that conventional medicine had failed to alleviate. Kersten's treatment was successful, and as a result, he became Himmler's personal therapist.

Throughout World War II, Kersten remained close to Himmler, accompanying him on various trips and having regular treatment sessions. This proximity to one of the most powerful men in Nazi Germany placed Kersten in a unique position to influence events, particularly concerning the treatment of prisoners and individuals targeted by the regime.

Humanitarian Efforts

Kersten used his influence over Himmler to negotiate the release of prisoners from concentration camps and to improve the conditions for others. He is credited with saving thousands of lives through his interventions. His most notable efforts include negotiating the release of people from the Ravensbrück concentration camp and intervening on behalf of the Dutch population during the Hongerwinter (Hunger Winter) of 1944-1945.

Post-War Life

After the war, Kersten's actions were recognized by several governments. He was awarded the Order of the Netherlands Lion and the Order of the White Rose of Finland for his humanitarian efforts. However, his close association with Himmler and other Nazi officials also led to suspicion and controversy. Kersten spent his post-war years in Sweden, where he continued his practice until his death in 1960.

Legacy

Felix Kersten's life and actions during World War II remain a subject of debate among historians. While some view him as a hero who used his unique position to save lives, others question the extent of his influence and his motivations. Despite these controversies, his efforts during the war have been recognized as significant humanitarian contributions.