Historical story

What was the red secret police?

Geheimstaatspolizei (Gestapo)

The Red Secret Police, or Gestapo, was the official secret police of Nazi Germany and was responsible for political and internal security. It was formed in 1933 and was led by Heinrich Himmler and Reinhard Heydrich.

The Gestapo's main task was to suppress any form of opposition to Nazi rule, both within Germany and in the occupied territories during the Second World War. It was responsible for arresting, torturing and executing political dissidents, resistance fighters, religious leaders, and anyone else who was seen as a threat to the Nazi regime.

The Gestapo was also responsible for enforcing the Nuremberg Laws, which stripped Jews and other minorities of their rights and freedoms. It also played a key role in the implementation of the Final Solution, the Nazi plan to exterminate the Jewish population of Europe.

The Gestapo was disbanded after the Second World War, but its legacy continues to be felt today. It is a symbol of the oppressive and totalitarian nature of Nazi Germany and a reminder of the dangers of unchecked political power.