Did Hermann G?ring Have a Brother Opposed to His Ideals?

Yes, Hermann G?ring did have a younger brother named Albert G?ring. Unlike his notorious brother, Albert was actively opposed to the ideals and actions of Nazi Germany. While Hermann became a prominent Nazi leader, Albert used his position to save lives and resist the oppressive policies of the Nazi regime. This article delves into their differing ideologies andthe stark contrast between their paths in life during a tumultuous period in history.

Background and Early Life

Both Hermann and Albert G?ring shared the same parents, Heinrich Ernst G?ring and Franziska Tiefenbrunn. Their paths diverged significantly as adults, with Hermann embracing and advancing through the ranks of the Nazi regime, while Albert took a diametrically opposite route. It would be misleading to say that Albert was the complete opposite of Hermann, as Hermann was never truly anti-Semitic by principle, but rather opportunistic within the party.

Opposition to Nazi Ideals

Albert G?ring was not just an opponent of Nazism; he took significant risks to aid Jews and dissidents during the Nazi era. He used his position to help Jews escape persecution and provided support to several Jewish individuals through various means. His actions were in stark contrast to his brother's, who was a key figure in the Nazi regime, including his role as a prominent leader in the Luftwaffe and the Gestapo.

Role in Rescuing Jews

Albert G?ring was known for his efforts to save Jewish lives during World War II. For example, he went to great lengths to protect actors and Jewish contacts through his wife Emmy's connections. He also ordered his detective to escort a Jewish art dealer named Kurt Walter Baschitz to the Swiss border to flee persecution. These actions were risky, as they often put Albert in conflict with the Gestapo and even his brother, who still provided support despite the deteriorating political climate.

While Hermann G?ring was not traditionally anti-Semitic and adopted these views opportunistically, Albert's actions were driven by his liberal ideology and his belief in humanitarian values. Even when Hermann dismissed the severity of the plight of Jews in Poland, Albert remained passionate in his efforts to help, believing that such actions were his personal responsibility regardless of the political consequences.

Consequences and Difficulties

Albert G?ring's actions did not go unnoticed. He faced significant personal and professional challenges as a result of his opposition to the regime. He was imprisoned for two years and was subject to repeated trials, often mistaken for his cousin Herbert, a corrupt bureaucrat. Despite these difficulties, Albert continued to support his Jewish contacts and work against the Nazi system until the end of the war.

Legacy

The legacy of Albert G?ring is often overshadowed by the infamy of his brother. However, his determination and willingness to help others in the face of oppression shine a light on the complexity of individual actions and beliefs during a dark chapter in history. Hermann and Albert G?ring's differing ideologies highlight the internal tensions and complexities within the Nazi regime itself.

Both brothers came from the same family roots, but their paths diverged greatly. Albert's life and actions stand as a testament to the power of personal conviction and ethical integrity in the face of immense political pressure.