Trial of the Major War Criminals Before the International Military Tribunal, Nuremburg, 14 November 1945-1 October 1946, Volume 12

by Various

"Trial of the Major War Criminals Before the International Military Tribunal" is a historical account published in the late 20th century. This comprehensive documentation chronicles the proceedings of high-ranking Nazi leaders accused of war crimes following World War II. The book primarily focuses on the testimonies, defenses, and judgments delivered during the International Military Tribunal held in Nuremberg from late 1945 to late 1946. At the start of this volume, the narration centers on the morning session of the one hundred and eleventh day of the trial, which takes place on April 18, 1946. Defendant Hans Frank, who served as the Governor-General of occupied Poland, is called to the stand by his counsel, Dr. Alfred Seidl. Frank gives a detailed account of his background, political affiliations, and the roles he played during the Nazi regime. He discusses the complexities of his administrative powers, the challenges he faced in dealing with the SS and police, and his limited influence over their operations. Through his testimony, Frank attempts to assert his innocence concerning war crimes while acknowledging the pervasive atrocities committed during his governance, revealing both his attempts to portray himself in a positive light and the complicated reality of his position within the broader regime.