Felix Steiner

ModernGeneralGermany1896 — 1966

SS general who refused Hitler suicide command at Berlin.

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Quick Facts

Born

1896

Died

1966

Country

Germany

Era

Modern

Occupation

General

Score Overview

Military (10%)30

Political (20%)31

Influence (20%)52

Legacy (20%)43

Leadership (15%)44

Strategy (15%)50

Total Score43.0

Felix Steiner — Complete Timeline

1943 AD

Command of SS Division WikingWar◆ Major

Steiner commanded the 5th SS Panzer Division Wiking on the Eastern Front. The division fought in the battles of Korsun-Cherkassy and Kovel, earning a reputation for defensive effectiveness.

World War IIEastern FrontWaffen-SS

Impact: regional

1945 AD

Refusal of Hitler's Berlin Relief OrderPolitical Action◆ Major

In April 1945, Hitler ordered Steiner's army group to relieve Berlin. Steiner refused, citing insufficient forces. This refusal contributed to Hitler's admission that the war was lost.

World War IIBerlinDisobedience

Impact: national

Surrender to British ForcesPolitical Action

Steiner surrendered to the British at the end of the war. He was held as a prisoner of war until 1948, but was never charged with war crimes.

World War IISurrender