#21 Helene Bechstein: “I Raised the Führer!”

Helene Bechstein was not merely the wife of a rich industrialist in the first half of the 20th century, but one of the early and highly influential supporters of the Nazi movement, who, through her personal relationship, had a significant impact on Adolf Hitler’s life and political career. Several historians have pointed out that Helene’s role went far beyond mere financial support: she was the one who introduced the young politician to the world of the social elite, shaped his manners and appearance, and provided him with “maternal” support on numerous occasions.