‎The Dark Charisma of Adolf Hitler: Leading Millions into the Abyss - Apple TV

Adolf Hitler was, arguably, the most extraordinary leader who has ever lived. He left behind a legacy of destruction without parallel. Yet given his violent and hate-filled character, why did millions support him? We examine Hitler’s relationship with the people he led with the help of testimony, archive film and reconstructions.

Documentary · 2012 · 59 min

Starring Laurence Rees

Director Laurence Rees

EPISODE 1

Episode 1

How did Adolf Hitler form such a connection with millions of Germans? British historian Laurence Rees looks at the seemingly unlikely figure who generated such fervent support and devotion from his country. This first episode looks at how his alleged ‘charisma’ played a key role in his success as a leader, and dispels the myth that he somehow hypnotized a nation.

49 min · Nov 13, 2012
EPISODE 2

Episode 2

At the peak of his popularity, Hitler led his people to war in 1939 and invaded France in 1940. Huge numbers gathered in Nuremberg to celebrate their leader. Yet he had not hypnotized his people into following him – they did so willingly. In this second episode, British historian Laurence Rees finds that Hitler’s ultimate aim was to take Germany into a war of racial conquest to gain a new empire.

48 min · Nov 19, 2012
EPISODE 3

Episode 3

In the 1930s, Hitler made ambitious boasts about what lay ahead for Germany and, at first, the war went well for the nation. But as it progressed, the successes stopped coming. In the last episode of the series, British historian Laurence Rees reveals how Hitler struggled to maintain his appeal in his final years – yet still managed to cling to power as the Red Army arrived at his bunker.

50 min · Nov 26, 2012

Laurence Rees

Host
Laurence Rees

Director
Laurence Rees

Producer
Laurence Rees

Writer