1 of 2

Write now Article Tools

The Franco-Prussian war of 1871 introduced a newly united German state and was the only war they actually won.

The German aristocracy played a crucial role in modern German history. Colonel-General Kurt von Hammerstein, General Franz Halder, Major-General Henning von Tresckow, Hauptmann Axel von dem Bussche, Hauptmann Ewald von Kleist, Leutnant Fabian von Schlabrendorff, General Freiherr Christophe von Gersdorff and Colonel Claus Schenk Graf von Stauffenberg all tried to remove Kanzler Hitler from power. Their efforts were combined to restore the aristocracy to power in wartime Germany and not to restore a liberal democracy. 'A nation that has lost every feeling for right and wrong, good and evil, that commits such crimes, deserves to be destroyed...' These names may be consigned to history however their actions exonerated the German people.

Today, a thoroughly modern Bavarian Baron Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg has become the aristocratic German finance minister.

Guttenberg, a Christian Social Union member, is facing many severe critics, however, these highly personal attacks are now doomed to confound the opposition's attempt to replace Kanzler Angela Merkel in September's general election. Herr Walter Steinmeier, the Social Democrats foreign minister is falling behind in the opinion polls.

Guttenberg's glamourous wife, Stephanie is a great granddaughter of Otto von Bismarck the Eisener Kanzler of the 19th century German empire. This aristocratic connection and this youthful 37 year old Baron's a highly articulate defence of free market economics is reaching out and connecting with young Germans. The youthful Baron's two young daughters point to a resumption of family values. He would like to give back to Germany what Germany has given to him. Guttennerg's father was a renowned music conductor and ecologist and his great-uncle was executed by the Nazis for resistance activities during World War 2 and his maternal grandfather was involved in the plot to kill Kanzler Hitler.

Baron Guttenberg's first big test came when Kanzler Merkel wanted to rescue ailing car manufacturer Opel. Guttenberg stepped in and recognised the expensive attempt to buy workers votes and stated companies must recover by themselves. Germany is coming out of recession and Guttenberg is receiving the credit and his popularity is such that he is seen as a politician the people can trust. The Baron dismisses the adulation saying that power is transient. German politicians rarely, if ever, receive a mention in fashion magazines the Baron's family did and he was voted Germany's rising star.

Learn more about this author, Hibernianscribe.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How history has shaped German identity?
We want to hear your view. Write now!