Stauffenberg: Hero or Hypocrite? The Complex Legacy of the July 20th Plot with Roger Moorhouse
In this thought-provoking episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill welcomes back historian Roger Moorhouse, author of "First to Fight" and "The Forgers." Together, they delve into the complexities of the 20 July bomb plot against Adolf Hitler, examining the motivations and legacies of those involved, particularly focusing on the controversial figure of Claus von Stauffenberg.
Unpacking the 20 July Plot:
Stauffenberg's Bravery: Acknowledging the physical and moral courage of Stauffenberg while questioning the narrative that elevates him to national hero status.
The Flawed Hero: Exploring Stauffenberg's past as a supporter of the Nazi regime and the implications of his late conversion to resistance.
Henning von Tresckow: Introducing a lesser-known but more morally consistent figure in the German resistance, who attempted multiple assassination plots against Hitler.
The Aftermath of the Plot:
Repression and Consequences: Discussing the brutal crackdown on resistance following the failed assassination attempt, leading to thousands of executions and the decimation of the German opposition.
Impact on Military Strategy: Analyzing how the regime's distrust of the Wehrmacht after the plot resulted in the appointment of incompetent leaders, further weakening Germany's military efforts.
Roger and Paul engage in a rich discussion that encourages listeners to reconsider their perceptions of historical figures and the narratives that surround them. By examining the complexities of Stauffenberg's character and the wider implications of the 20 July plot, this episode invites a deeper understanding of the moral ambiguities of wartime resistance.
Guest Information:
Follow Roger on Twitter: @roger_moorhouse.
Buy the books:
Killing Hitler: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781844133222
The Devil’s Alliance: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9780099571896
The Forgers: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781847926760
Also hear Roger through Season 1 of Moments in Time: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAZ--PlOi5b_MKoSSzhoQxQ
Connect with History Rage:
- Twitter: @HistoryRage
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- Bluesky: @historyrage
Support History Rage on Patreon for early episode access, the chance to submit questions to guests, prize draws, and the exclusive History Rage mug at www.patreon.com/historyrage.
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History Rage
Think you know history? Think again.
History Rage is the weekly podcast where professional historians come armed with evidence, fury, and a burning desire to set the record straight. Hosted by Paul Bavill, each episode invites a leading historian to reveal the one historical myth, misconception, or lazy narrative they wish we’d all stop believing — and why it matters.
From “Vikings wore horned helmets” to “Britain stood alone in 1940” and “medieval people never bathed,” this is history with attitude, myth-busting with academic rigor, and truth-telling that pulls no punches.
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