Dan Snow's History Hit The Germans Who Rebelled Against the Nazis
Oct 14, 2025
Journalist and author Jonathan Freedland dives into the tale of the Solf Circle, a group of elite Germans in 1943 Berlin secretly plotting against Hitler. He reveals their blend of moral imperatives and practical aid to Jews amidst a deadly regime. The conversation explores their ambitious post-war plans, the crucial betrayal that unraveled their efforts, and the complex motivations that drove individuals to resist Nazism. Freedland emphasizes the importance of recognizing and acting against threats to democracy, drawing parallels to today.
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The Charlottenburg Tea That Was A Plot
- Nine well-connected Berliners gathered for a birthday tea that doubled as a discussion about removing Hitler and preparing for postwar Germany.
- They spoke candidly about plans, successors, and humanitarian relief while believing they were among like-minded compatriots.
Salons As Dual Purpose Spaces
- The Solf Circle combined social solace with resistance work, trading information and practical aid while sometimes discussing future political arrangements.
- Their meetings blurred private comfort and public opposition, making salons both safe havens and operational hubs.
Hiding People In Plain Sight
- Countess Maria von Maltzern hid dozens of Jews in her apartment, imposing strict silence and restrictions to avoid detection.
- She even hid her secret lover inside a mahogany piece of furniture during a Gestapo visit.
