Rudolf Hess: Ascendancy and Influence

This chapter explores Rudolf Hess's early political involvement with the NSDAP and his role in confronting the KPD during Weimar Germany. It examines his contributions to the failed Munich Putsch and the resulting prison time shared with Hitler, highlighting their collaboration on 'Mein Kampf' and the psychological nuances of their relationship. Furthermore, the chapter reflects on the broader impact of World War I on German society and key figures, setting the stage for the drastic political shifts that followed.