Nazi Leaders' Reactions to Rudolf Hess at the Nuremberg Trials: A Closer Look

At the Nuremberg Trials, the reactions of Nazi leaders to Rudolf Hess varied significantly. Hess, Adolf Hitler's deputy and a prominent figure in the Nazi regime, had flown to Scotland in 1941 in a daring bid for peace with the United Kingdom. This episode, though short-lived, left a profound impact on his fellow Nazi leaders. This article examines the different reactions and the overall atmosphere surrounding Hess's appearance at the trials.

The Flight of Rudolf Hess (1941)

On May 10, 1941, Rudolf Hess embarked on a remarkable journey that would defy all expectations. He flew solo in an ME 110 twin-engine fighter to Scotland, evading British radar to reach the Duke of Hamilton's estate. Adolf Hitler's deputy had been isolated from the Nazi leadership's inner circle after his flight. However, this did not stop the former comrade-in-arms from attempting to seek a peaceful resolution with the British.

Before the Second World War, Rudolf Hess had some contact with the Duke of Hamilton through a peace organization. Hess hoped the Duke could put him in touch with British authorities to make an offer of peace. On May 10, 1941, Hess made a daring flight. This date was significant as it was just five weeks before the massive land invasion, Operation Barbarossa. Hitler, who had planned the operation with the United Kingdom out of the picture, was struggling to eliminate the threat from Britain. Hess's mission was to secure a peace pact with Britain, ensuring she no longer posed a threat so Hitler could focus on his Russian ambitions.

Nazi Leaders' Reactions to Hess' Arrest (1945)

When Hess was arrested as a war criminal, there was a mix of emotions among the Nazi leaders. Goering, in particular, thought Hess had lost his mind. The mystifying actions of Hess were a reminder of the deep divisions within the Nazi leadership. Hitler, who considered Hess a loyal soldier of the Reich, was shocked by his actions. After his arrest, Hess was examined by medical staff. The medical records from his time in prison raised suspicion, leading to an investigation into his identity.

Medical Examinations and Suspicion

The medical examiner concluded that the man in the examining room did not match the records from 1941. The man called Hess had different identifying marks on his body, suggesting he might not be the same person. The doctor brought this to the attention of the commandant, who instructed an investigation. However, it seems this matter was not pursued further. The prisoner who lived at Landsberg prison until his death in his late nineties was never definitively identified.

The Nuremberg Trials and Hess' Defense Strategy (1946)

At the Nuremberg Trials in 1946, Hess appeared alongside other Nazi leaders like Goering. When asked about his guilt, Hess declared his answer with venom: "Not guilty." Despite the suspicion and mixed reactions, the medical records from 1941 raised further questions about the true identity of Hess. Some theorize that the real Hess had been replaced by a look-alike, and the true identity was intentionally kept hidden.

Conclusion

The actions of Rudolf Hess at the Nuremberg Trials highlighted the deep ruptures within the Nazi leadership. While some leaders showed camaraderie with Hess, others were critical. The mysterious flight to Scotland, the arrest, and the subsequent medical scrutiny sparked suspicion and a reevaluation of Hess's true identity. The Hess case remains a fascinating subject of debate, and questions about his true identity and motives continue to intrigue historians and conspiracy theorists alike.