Jonathan Klein

At Zero Hour: the Government of Karl Dönitz: a History of the Final Days of the Nazi Government, with Reflections As Seen in German Literature Jonathan Klein

Though World War Two is well covered in many history books, the mechanics of the capitulation in May 1945 are often overlooked. In this area, the actions of the government of Karl Dönitz are key. With Hitler's suicide, leadership of the Third Reich was passed to Karl Dönitz, head of the U-boat fleet and Grand Admiral of the German Navy. While usually remembered in his role as Admiral, Dönitz also performed a governmental role in the ending of World War Two. Historical investigation, as well insights provided by German literature of the period help document the activities of the Dönitz government and its impact on both the course of the war and the transition to peace. His impact, both on history and on German national memory vis-à-vis literature are examined, with emphasis on pre-surrender activities of his government, the surrender process itself, and the very immediate post war period with regards to how the Dönitz government helped bring the Second World War to a close. The analysis should help students of German and military history as well as German literature understand the transition to peace in World War Two, and the impact of the period on German literature.