Hitler and the Final Solution in Yad Vashem Studies, Volume XX

Hitler’s Direct Influence on Decisions Affecting Jews during World War II

This study considers the different opinions on Hitler’s direct involvement in the Final Solution as expressed at the Stuttgart conference of historians in 1984 (see vol. 1, no. 451). Surveys are given of the Nazi sources recording Hitler’s concrete positions and orders concerning the fate of Jews in such matters as the treatment of the Mischlinge (Jews of mixed blood), the status of Jews in the Greater Reich, and the deportation of the Hungarian Jews. Hitler’s concern for secrecy concerning Nazi policy as regards the European Jews is emphasized. The arguments for Hitler’s passive role in the Final Solution are refuted, and in conclusion, it is demonstrated that he actually monitored and controlled the liquidation of the Jewish population.