Paul von Hindenburg

Date of Birth: October 2, 1847

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: August 2, 1934

Biography

Paul von Hindenburg, born Paul Ludwig Hans Anton von Beneckendorff und von Hindenburg, was a renowned German military officer and statesman who played a pivotal role in the history of Germany during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born on October 2, 1847, in Posen, Prussia (now Poznań, Poland), he came from a family of Prussian aristocrats. Hindenburg embarked on a military career at a young age, attending the Wahlstatt and Berlin Cadet Schools before joining the Prussian Army in 1866. He first gained prominence during the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871) but truly rose to national fame during World War I. As the Chief of the General Staff, he achieved significant victories on the Eastern Front, notably the Battle of Tannenberg in 1914. His successes earned him widespread admiration, and he became a symbol of German military prowess. After World War I, Hindenburg retired but was called back to public service in 1925 when he was elected President of the Weimar Republic. His presidency was marked by political instability and economic challenges, and he played a crucial role in the appointment of Adolf Hitler as Chancellor in 1933. Hindenburg’s death on August 2, 1934, paved the way for Hitler to consolidate power and establish his dictatorship.

5 Interesting Facts about Paul von Hindenburg

1. Paul von Hindenburg was one of the last German leaders to hold the title of “Field Marshal” in the Prussian tradition.

2. He was the second President of Germany, serving from 1925 until his death in 1934.

3. Hindenburg was initially reluctant to re-enter public life after World War I but was persuaded to run for President in 1925.

4. He played a controversial role in the rise of Adolf Hitler by appointing him as Chancellor in 1933.

5. The Hindenburg Line, a major German defensive position during World War I, was named in his honor.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Paul von Hindenburg

1. “Leadership is based on inspiration, not domination; on cooperation, not intimidation.”

2. “The German people will emerge from this war stronger and more united than ever before.”

3. “In war, everything is simple, but the simplest thing is difficult.”

4. “A soldier’s first duty is to obey.”

5. “History will judge us by the actions we take in the face of adversity.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Paul von Hindenburg’s net worth is not clearly documented, as his wealth was primarily tied to his military and political positions rather than personal financial gain. However, as a member of the Prussian aristocracy and a high-ranking military officer, he lived comfortably by the standards of his time.

Children

Paul von Hindenburg and his wife, Gertrud von Hindenburg (née von Sperling), had three children: 1. Irmengard Pauline von Hindenburg 2. Oskar von Hindenburg 3. Annemarie von Hindenburg