Deliver toUnited Arab Emirates
The SS: Alibi of a Nation, 1922-1945

Description:


The SS--short for the German
Schutzstaffeln--was a far-flung organization, of which the Gestapo was only one branch, that served as the tyrannical expression of Nazi bureaucracy, a politics of terror. Germans in high places still use the SS as a standard excuse for the acts of murder, extortion, and genocide that were facts of daily life under the Nazis. Reitlinger explores the complex social machinery that allowed the SS to operate--the administration and internal rivalries, the SS field divisions, German military intelligence, and the organization of the concentration and death camps. He shows how the SS was embedded in the basic government of the country during those years and how its members were not so much lunatic killers as loyal citizens doing the bidding of a country that had gone insane. Powerful, objective, and based on original German documents and interviews--including information from Himmler's statistician--this book rejects the SS as an alibi for a nation's responsibility in the most far-reaching racial massacre in history.


Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Gerald Reitlinger (1900-1978) wrote three books on Nazi Germany, including The Final Solution and The House Built on Sand.

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars Maybe the most informative of its kind

o. · April 11, 2004

This book is an exceptional work, and I must first point out that while it is crammed full of factual information, intimate conversations, the overall scheming and intra-party politics in the formation of the SS and the constant power struggles, this book is by no means a dry, statistical type of read, only suitable for the determined historian. It is not always easy to keep track of the major (and minor) personalities and their constant intrigue and subterfuge at all levels, but the author does a masterful job of balancing the, at times, overwhelming amount of information with a very personal and intimate flair keeps the reader awake and engaged in the story as it develops.Mark Werger, an author of many books on the SS, recently stated this was easily in the top 10 of best books he had read, and I can see why. When you finish this book you will have a much more throrough understanding of the SS thanks to the painstaking and meticulous research performed by Gerald Reitlinger. It is so informative you will probably never part with it if you are truly interested in the subject.

5.0 out of 5 stars Painstakingly researched from firsthand accounts

M.G. · May 15, 2002

As the title suggests, Reitlinger follows for the reader the inception and budding organization of the SS and other police or civil branches within an increasingly-menacing police state in Germany. The reader must read carefully through the first fifth of the book to avoid confusing names and relationships, but ultimately the actors are well defined. Every conversation or statement from the main characters is routinely cited from firsthand accounts. The book includes an extensive bibliography and a biography of dozens of characters in the upper echelons of the Nazi military, SS and civil bureaucracy. Reitlinger weaves a remarkable tapestry of places, names and events until we have a better understanding of the inner workings of the Nazi government, their secret orders of exterminating Jews and Slavs and other "sub-human" races, the often public denials of the concentration camps by members of the highest rank, the contests for power under Hitler, and the seductions and betrayals between officers and agents(like a nest of vipers) at the heart of the German Reich. An important scholarly addition to any WWII library, this book details the most insidious plots and conversations among history's most brutal mass murderers, the corruption of their officers, and the incredible processes of armies within armies, states within the state, and secret intelligence forces within the police and other ministries.Well-written, consise, and highly credible.

4.0 out of 5 stars A very interesting read...

G. · October 27, 2014

As my headline says, "The SS: Alibi of a Nation" is a very interesting read. However, it is not an easy reading. Between a heavy subject, and sometimes confusing time jumps, this book rating is a Four out of Five Stars.Because of different accounts in interviews, diaries, and memories, there are several instances where the reader is given the different views of what happened. I do applaud the author for being up front about the lack of agreement on what exactly happened, especially in the early days of the SS being formed. With the political chaos and blackmail happening, it is no wonder that documents and accounts vary or are missing.The book was purchased used, and it reflects it. The pages are well worn, but not torn. A couple corners are bent, and the back cover has a small corner missing. However, this is no major deal, and I'm more than fine with it. The seller didn't mention the corner being gone, but the other wear was mentioned.In all, I'm very satisfied with the book.

5.0 out of 5 stars alibis

s. · April 21, 2015

it arrived on time, and the book appeared to be almost new. it is the story of the ss in nazi germany and how the people of germany could use the ss as the evil ones who did it. they did not have to face their own guilt when they had a ready made totally guilty group. it is an interesting book and well worth what i paid for it. if you want to learn more about the ss in nazi germany, i recommend it.

5.0 out of 5 stars Book

L.L.P. · July 31, 2023

Good condition

5.0 out of 5 stars Five Stars

A.G. · June 2, 2018

Excellent book and a great seller.

4.0 out of 5 stars Ridgid: Informative

W. · December 2, 2024

“The SS: Alibi of a Nation, 1922-1945” provides an authoritative exploration of the SS, but its academic style and lack of personal anecdotes may not resonate with all readers. It remains an essential resource for serious students of Nazi history and the Holocaust.

5.0 out of 5 stars excellent book, and I am very satisfied with amazon ...

r.k. · June 15, 2015

excellent book,and I am very satisfied with Bolo service and the ability to obtain various books which I cannot acquire in book stores.

Dated but still a very good read

P.I.E. · March 25, 2024

In some respects this is "of its time" and there are other more recent books that have used more recently available sources. However this is still a very good and thorough account of the organisation, and its age means that while it may be missing some content,, its closer proximity to the events is a good counter to that. Recommended.

The SS: Alibi of a Nation, 1922-1945

Product ID: U0306803518
Condition: New

4.8

AED10322

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Type: Paperback
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

Returns & Warranty policies

Imported From: United States

At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.

BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.

If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.

Your trust is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in every transaction.

All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.

While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.

Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.

All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.

Similar suggestions by Bolo

More from this brand

Similar items from “Holocaust”

The SS: Alibi of a Nation, 1922-1945

Product ID: U0306803518
Condition: New

4.8

The SS: Alibi of a Nation, 1922-1945-0
Type: Paperback

AED10322

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

Returns & Warranty policies

Imported From: United States

At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.

BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.

If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.

Your trust is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in every transaction.

All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.

While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.

Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.

All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.

Description:


The SS--short for the German
Schutzstaffeln--was a far-flung organization, of which the Gestapo was only one branch, that served as the tyrannical expression of Nazi bureaucracy, a politics of terror. Germans in high places still use the SS as a standard excuse for the acts of murder, extortion, and genocide that were facts of daily life under the Nazis. Reitlinger explores the complex social machinery that allowed the SS to operate--the administration and internal rivalries, the SS field divisions, German military intelligence, and the organization of the concentration and death camps. He shows how the SS was embedded in the basic government of the country during those years and how its members were not so much lunatic killers as loyal citizens doing the bidding of a country that had gone insane. Powerful, objective, and based on original German documents and interviews--including information from Himmler's statistician--this book rejects the SS as an alibi for a nation's responsibility in the most far-reaching racial massacre in history.


Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Gerald Reitlinger (1900-1978) wrote three books on Nazi Germany, including The Final Solution and The House Built on Sand.

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars Maybe the most informative of its kind

o. · April 11, 2004

This book is an exceptional work, and I must first point out that while it is crammed full of factual information, intimate conversations, the overall scheming and intra-party politics in the formation of the SS and the constant power struggles, this book is by no means a dry, statistical type of read, only suitable for the determined historian. It is not always easy to keep track of the major (and minor) personalities and their constant intrigue and subterfuge at all levels, but the author does a masterful job of balancing the, at times, overwhelming amount of information with a very personal and intimate flair keeps the reader awake and engaged in the story as it develops.Mark Werger, an author of many books on the SS, recently stated this was easily in the top 10 of best books he had read, and I can see why. When you finish this book you will have a much more throrough understanding of the SS thanks to the painstaking and meticulous research performed by Gerald Reitlinger. It is so informative you will probably never part with it if you are truly interested in the subject.

5.0 out of 5 stars Painstakingly researched from firsthand accounts

M.G. · May 15, 2002

As the title suggests, Reitlinger follows for the reader the inception and budding organization of the SS and other police or civil branches within an increasingly-menacing police state in Germany. The reader must read carefully through the first fifth of the book to avoid confusing names and relationships, but ultimately the actors are well defined. Every conversation or statement from the main characters is routinely cited from firsthand accounts. The book includes an extensive bibliography and a biography of dozens of characters in the upper echelons of the Nazi military, SS and civil bureaucracy. Reitlinger weaves a remarkable tapestry of places, names and events until we have a better understanding of the inner workings of the Nazi government, their secret orders of exterminating Jews and Slavs and other "sub-human" races, the often public denials of the concentration camps by members of the highest rank, the contests for power under Hitler, and the seductions and betrayals between officers and agents(like a nest of vipers) at the heart of the German Reich. An important scholarly addition to any WWII library, this book details the most insidious plots and conversations among history's most brutal mass murderers, the corruption of their officers, and the incredible processes of armies within armies, states within the state, and secret intelligence forces within the police and other ministries.Well-written, consise, and highly credible.

4.0 out of 5 stars A very interesting read...

G. · October 27, 2014

As my headline says, "The SS: Alibi of a Nation" is a very interesting read. However, it is not an easy reading. Between a heavy subject, and sometimes confusing time jumps, this book rating is a Four out of Five Stars.Because of different accounts in interviews, diaries, and memories, there are several instances where the reader is given the different views of what happened. I do applaud the author for being up front about the lack of agreement on what exactly happened, especially in the early days of the SS being formed. With the political chaos and blackmail happening, it is no wonder that documents and accounts vary or are missing.The book was purchased used, and it reflects it. The pages are well worn, but not torn. A couple corners are bent, and the back cover has a small corner missing. However, this is no major deal, and I'm more than fine with it. The seller didn't mention the corner being gone, but the other wear was mentioned.In all, I'm very satisfied with the book.

5.0 out of 5 stars alibis

s. · April 21, 2015

it arrived on time, and the book appeared to be almost new. it is the story of the ss in nazi germany and how the people of germany could use the ss as the evil ones who did it. they did not have to face their own guilt when they had a ready made totally guilty group. it is an interesting book and well worth what i paid for it. if you want to learn more about the ss in nazi germany, i recommend it.

5.0 out of 5 stars Book

L.L.P. · July 31, 2023

Good condition

5.0 out of 5 stars Five Stars

A.G. · June 2, 2018

Excellent book and a great seller.

4.0 out of 5 stars Ridgid: Informative

W. · December 2, 2024

“The SS: Alibi of a Nation, 1922-1945” provides an authoritative exploration of the SS, but its academic style and lack of personal anecdotes may not resonate with all readers. It remains an essential resource for serious students of Nazi history and the Holocaust.

5.0 out of 5 stars excellent book, and I am very satisfied with amazon ...

r.k. · June 15, 2015

excellent book,and I am very satisfied with Bolo service and the ability to obtain various books which I cannot acquire in book stores.

Dated but still a very good read

P.I.E. · March 25, 2024

In some respects this is "of its time" and there are other more recent books that have used more recently available sources. However this is still a very good and thorough account of the organisation, and its age means that while it may be missing some content,, its closer proximity to the events is a good counter to that. Recommended.

Similar suggestions by Bolo

More from this brand

Similar items from “Holocaust”