Quick Facts
Hindenburg: World War I hero, German president, appointed Hitler Chancellor.
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Life Journey
Paul Ludwig Hans Anton von Beneckendorff und von Hindenburg was born to a family of minor Prussian nobility in Posen, Prussia.
Hindenburg serves as a cadet in the Prussian Army during the Austro-Prussian War, gaining valuable military experience.
Hindenburg completes his studies at the Prussian Military Academy, setting the stage for his future military career.
Hindenburg marries Gertrud von Sperling, with whom he will have three children, further cementing his position in Prussian society.
Hindenburg is promoted to the rank of Captain, marking a significant step in his military career.
Hindenburg is promoted to Major General and assumes command of a division, solidifying his reputation as a capable military leader.
Hindenburg reaches the rank of General of Infantry and commands a corps, further enhancing his military standing.
After a distinguished career, Hindenburg retires from active military service but remains a respected figure in the Prussian military establishment.
At the start of World War I, Hindenburg is recalled to active duty and given command of the Eighth Army on the Eastern Front.
Hindenburg is appointed Chief of the General Staff, effectively becoming the commander of the German Army and a key figure in the war effort.
Following the defeat of Germany in World War I, Hindenburg resigns from his position as Chief of the General Staff.
Hindenburg is elected as the second President of the Weimar Republic, a position he will hold until his death.
Hindenburg is re-elected as President of the Weimar Republic, continuing his role as a stabilizing figure in a turbulent political environment.
In a controversial decision, Hindenburg appoints Adolf Hitler as Chancellor of Germany, a move that will have profound and tragic consequences.
Paul von Hindenburg dies at his estate in Neudeck, East Prussia, leaving behind a complex legacy in German history.