Adolf Hitler owed his initial success to his ability to capture the hearts of the German people. That talent was largely due to his skill at creating a public persona, not only as a man of determination and effectiveness, but as a visionary and prophet. To develop the latter image he associated himself with the Bavarian Alps, where, from his retreat in Obersalzberg, he was able to manipulate public opinion.
This work examines the political events that took place in Obersalzberg from the 1920s until the U.S. Army returned control of the area to the German government in 1995. Concentrating primarily on the years during which Hitler was in residence, it discusses the geography, history and climate of Berchtesgaden as well as Hitler’s original acquaintance with the area. In a wider scope, however, the work focuses on the symbolism of identity and public perception as it relates to the place, setting and lifestyle of political figures.

Arthur H. Mitchell is a distinguished professor of history at the Salkehatchie Campus of the University of South Carolina. He lives in Allendale, South Carolina.

Arthur H. Mitchell
Format: softcover (7 x 10)
Pages: 224
Bibliographic Info: 17 photos, notes, bibliography, index
Copyright Date: 2010 [2007]
pISBN: 978-0-7864-4917-0
Imprint: McFarland

Acknowledgments      v
Preface      1
Introduction: Der Mann und der Berg      3

One: Vagabond to Führer      7
Two: Berghof      25
Three: Festung      48
Four: Occupation and After, 1945–2005      144

Notes      183
Selected Bibliography      199
Index      211

• “Engaging”—The Journal of Military History
• “Highly readable and informative. The book builds upon an already large historiography, and finds its niche amongst the more comprehensive examinations of Hitler”—H-Net Reviews.