Erich Raeder, German admiral (d. 1960)
Erich Johann Albert Raeder, born on 24 April 1876 and passing away on 6 November 1960, was a profoundly influential figure in German naval history, particularly during World War II. As a distinguished German admiral, his strategic acumen and leadership significantly shaped the operational trajectory of the Kriegsmarine—the German navy—through the initial, pivotal years of the conflict.

Early Career and Ascendance

Raeder's naval career began long before the Second World War, rooted in the Imperial German Navy. His experience during World War I, including participation in major engagements, provided a foundation for his later command roles. This extensive background and consistent rise through the ranks ultimately culminated in his appointment as Commander-in-Chief of the Kriegsmarine in 1935, a role he held as Germany rapidly rearmed.

The Grand Admiral and Kriegsmarine Leadership

In 1939, a momentous year on the eve of the war, Raeder achieved the pinnacle of naval distinction: he was promoted to the rank of Grand Admiral (Großadmiral). This esteemed title, the highest possible in the German navy, had not been bestowed upon anyone since Henning von Holtzendorff during World War I, underscoring its rarity and the immense prestige associated with it. As Grand Admiral, Raeder was the strategic architect and operational head of the Kriegsmarine for the crucial first half of World War II. Under his command, the German navy undertook significant operations, from the invasion of Norway (Operation Weserübung) to the initial phases of the Battle of the Atlantic, where U-boat warfare and surface raiders posed a grave threat to Allied shipping. He championed the ambitious "Z Plan," which envisioned a massive expansion of the German surface fleet, though this plan was never fully realized due to the outbreak of war.

Resignation and Succession

Despite his seniority and initial successes, Raeder’s relationship with Adolf Hitler became increasingly strained as the war progressed. Disagreements arose, particularly concerning naval strategy; Raeder advocated for a strong surface fleet to challenge British naval supremacy, while Hitler, especially after certain surface fleet setbacks like the Battle of the Barents Sea, grew increasingly focused on U-boat warfare. These strategic differences, coupled with the deteriorating war situation, led to Raeder's resignation from his command in January 1943. He was subsequently replaced by Admiral Karl Dönitz, who was a staunch proponent and expert in submarine warfare, reflecting Hitler's shifting priorities.

Post-War Life and Legacy

Following Germany's defeat, Erich Raeder was among the high-ranking military leaders apprehended and tried by the International Military Tribunal at the Nuremberg Trials. Accused of crimes against peace and war crimes, he was found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment. However, due to his deteriorating health, he was released early from Spandau Prison in 1955. He lived for another five years, passing away in 1960. His career remains a testament to the complexities of naval strategy and leadership during one of history's most tumultuous periods.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Erich Raeder?

Erich Raeder was a German admiral who served as the Commander-in-Chief of the Kriegsmarine (German navy) from 1935 to 1943, reaching the rank of Grand Admiral during World War II.

What was the "Grand Admiral" rank?

The Grand Admiral (Großadmiral) was the highest possible rank in the German navy, equivalent to a Field Marshal in the army. It was a very prestigious and rarely bestowed title, signifying the pinnacle of naval command and experience.

What was Raeder's primary role in World War II?

Raeder led the Kriegsmarine for the first half of World War II, overseeing its strategic planning and major operations, including the initial phases of the Battle of the Atlantic and naval aspects of campaigns like the invasion of Norway. He was responsible for developing the German naval strategy against the formidable Allied powers.

Why did Erich Raeder resign in 1943?

Raeder resigned in January 1943 primarily due to increasing strategic disagreements with Adolf Hitler. While Raeder advocated for a balanced fleet with strong surface units, Hitler became increasingly disillusioned with the performance of surface ships and favored focusing resources on U-boat warfare, leading to a clash of strategic visions.

What happened to Erich Raeder after World War II?

After the war, Erich Raeder was tried at the Nuremberg Trials, found guilty of war crimes and crimes against peace, and sentenced to life imprisonment. He was later released in 1955 due to failing health.