The Reich Marshal: A Biography of Hermann Goering

Leonard Mosley's biography examines the life of Hermann Goering, who rose to become Hitler's second-in-command and head of the German Luftwaffe during World War II. The book traces Goering's path from his early years through his time as a WWI fighter pilot to his central role in the Nazi regime. The narrative covers Goering's political ascent in the Nazi party and his accumulation of power and wealth as one of the Third Reich's most prominent figures. Mosley draws on historical records and firsthand accounts to document Goering's actions as Reich Marshal and his oversight of Germany's air force. The biography details Goering's leadership style, personal relationships, and complex personality, including his extravagant lifestyle and art collection. It follows his story through the war years and final days of the Nazi regime. This biography raises questions about the nature of power, corruption, and the capacity of individuals to participate in systematic evil while maintaining a veneer of culture and sophistication. Mosley's account contributes to our understanding of how the Nazi hierarchy operated at its highest levels.

Readers consider this biography thorough but note Mosley's occasional sympathy for Goering despite his war crimes. Reviews highlight the detailed research into Goering's personal life and rise to power. Liked: - In-depth coverage of Goering's WWI flying career - Personal details and family relationships - Examination of his art collecting and lifestyle - Clear writing style and pacing Disliked: - Some readers found Mosley too lenient in his treatment of Goering - Limited coverage of certain wartime decisions - Missing documentation for certain claims - Focus on personality over military/political analysis Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (121 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (31 ratings) Notable reader comment: "Mosley provides fascinating insights into Goering's character but sometimes seems to downplay his role in Nazi atrocities" - Goodreads reviewer Many readers recommended pairing this with other Nazi leadership biographies for a more complete perspective.

Inside the Third Reich by Albert Speer Hitler's architect and Minister of Armaments provides first-hand accounts of Nazi leadership and the inner workings of the Reich through his personal interactions with Goering and other high-ranking officials.

Goebbels by Peter Longerich This biography examines the life of Joseph Goebbels through his extensive diaries and documents, revealing the connections between Nazi propaganda and the Reich Marshal's activities.

Hitler's Last Days by Hugh Trevor-Roper The investigation into the final days of the Nazi regime includes detailed accounts of Goering's attempt to seize power from Hitler and the subsequent collapse of the Reich leadership.

The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich by William L. Shirer This comprehensive history of Nazi Germany includes extensive coverage of Goering's role in building the Luftwaffe and his participation in the economic exploitation of occupied territories.

Goering: Hitler's Iron Knight by Richard Overy This biography focuses on Goering's military career, his role in establishing the Gestapo, and his leadership of Germany's economic preparation for war.

💭 While researching the biography, Leonard Mosley interviewed Goering's second wife Emmy and his daughter Edda, providing intimate family perspectives rarely found in other accounts. 🏰 Goering amassed one of the largest private art collections in Europe during WWII, worth billions in today's money, much of it stolen from Jewish collectors and occupied territories. ⚔️ The book reveals that despite his fearsome public image, Goering was known to wear colorful silk robes, paint his nails, and take baths with expensive perfumed oils while at his estate, Carinhall. 🎭 During the Nuremberg trials, Goering managed to outsmart his American psychiatrist, Dr. Douglas Kelley, by appearing more rational and intelligent than he actually was, as detailed in Mosley's research. 🗝️ The biography explores Goering's morphine addiction, which began after he was wounded during the 1923 Beer Hall Putsch and plagued him until his suicide in 1946, significantly affecting his decision-making during the war.