Hasso von Manteuffel, German general and politician (d. 1978)

Freiherr Hasso Eccard von Manteuffel, born on 14 January 1897 and passing away on 24 September 1978, was a distinguished figure in German history, renowned both for his exemplary military leadership during World War II and his significant political contributions to post-war West Germany. Hailing from the venerable Prussian von Manteuffel family, a lineage steeped in military tradition and nobility, he embodied the strategic acumen often associated with Prussian officers.

A Prominent Panzer General of World War II

During World War II, Hasso von Manteuffel rose to prominence as a highly effective and respected general, particularly noted for his command of armoured units. His tactical brilliance and ability to inspire his troops were evident throughout his campaigns. He notably commanded the 5th Panzer Army, a crucial formation that saw extensive action on the Western Front. One of his most significant commands was during the Ardennes Offensive, also known as the Battle of the Bulge, in late 1944. There, his forces, despite immense challenges, demonstrated remarkable resilience and tactical prowess, often outmaneuvering Allied units, which earned him a formidable reputation even among his adversaries.

For his exceptional bravery, leadership, and strategic achievements on the battlefield, von Manteuffel was a recipient of the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords and Diamonds. This was one of Nazi Germany's highest military decorations, awarded for extraordinary leadership in combat or exceptional success in battle. The inclusion of Oak Leaves, Swords, and especially Diamonds signified an extremely rare and distinguished honour, placing him among a very elite group of decorated officers.

Post-War Political Influence and the Birth of the Bundeswehr

Following the conclusion of World War II, Hasso von Manteuffel transitioned from military command to a pivotal role in the nascent West German political landscape. He was elected to the Bundestag, the federal parliament of West Germany, where he served with the Free Democratic Party (FDP). Within the Bundestag, he quickly became the spokesman for defense, a critical position during the intense geopolitical climate of the Cold War.

A staunch proponent of German rearmament, a highly sensitive and debated topic in the aftermath of the war, von Manteuffel played an instrumental role in shaping the future of Germany's armed forces. He was famously responsible for coining the new name for the post-World War II German military: the "Bundeswehr." This name, meaning "Federal Defense Force," was carefully chosen to reflect a departure from the historical connotations of previous German armies (like the Wehrmacht or Reichswehr) and to emphasize its role as a defensive force firmly integrated into a democratic state and international alliances like NATO. The establishment of the Bundeswehr in 1955, with its principles of "Innere Führung" (leadership by inner conviction) and its clear parliamentary oversight, marked a significant shift in German military philosophy, moving away from an uncritical obedience to authority towards a citizen-in-uniform concept. Von Manteuffel's contribution to this new identity was profound and lasting.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hasso von Manteuffel

Who was Hasso von Manteuffel?

Hasso von Manteuffel was a German general during World War II, highly decorated for his leadership of Panzer units, and later a significant political figure in post-war West Germany, instrumental in the rearmament debate and the naming of the Bundeswehr.

What was Hasso von Manteuffel's role in World War II?

He commanded the 5th Panzer Army and was known for his tactical prowess, particularly during the Ardennes Offensive. He was one of the most highly decorated German generals of the war.

What high military decoration did Hasso von Manteuffel receive?

He received the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords and Diamonds, one of Nazi Germany's rarest and most distinguished military awards for leadership and bravery.

What was Hasso von Manteuffel's contribution to post-war Germany?

After the war, he served in the Bundestag (West German legislature) as the defense spokesman for the Free Democratic Party. He was a key advocate for German rearmament and is credited with coining the name "Bundeswehr" for the new armed forces.

What does "Bundeswehr" mean?

"Bundeswehr" translates to "Federal Defense Force" and was chosen to signify a democratic, defensive military force distinct from previous German armies, established under parliamentary control in 1955.