History of Europe

Would it have been justifiable to assassinate Hitler?

Whether or not it would have been justifiable to assassinate Hitler is a complex question with no easy answer. There are many factors to consider, including the potential benefits and risks of such an action, the moral implications, and the international consequences.

Potential Benefits

One potential benefit of assassinating Hitler would have been the immediate end of the Second World War. Hitler's death would have left Germany without a clear leader, and the country would likely have surrendered. This would have saved countless lives that were lost in the final months of the war.

Another potential benefit would have been the prevention of the Holocaust. Hitler was the driving force behind the genocide of six million Jews, and his death would have put a stop to this horror.

Potential Risks

There were also significant risks associated with assassinating Hitler. One risk was that it could have triggered a civil war in Germany. Hitler's death would have created a power vacuum, which could have been filled by a Nazi or military leader who was even more dangerous.

Another risk was that it could have led to a wider war. Hitler's death could have provoked a military response from Germany, which could have led to other countries being drawn into the conflict.

Moral Implications

The moral implications of assassinating Hitler are also complex. Some people argue that it would have been justified because Hitler was a mass murderer and a threat to humanity. Others argue that it would have been wrong because it would have been murder, even if it was for a good cause.

International Consequences

The international consequences of assassinating Hitler would have been significant. It is likely that Germany would have been occupied by the Allied powers, which could have led to a prolonged occupation and the loss of German sovereignty.

Overall, the decision of whether or not to assassinate Hitler was a complex one with no easy answer. There were potential benefits and risks associated with such an action, and the moral implications are also complex. Ultimately, the decision would have been up to the individual or group making the attempt.