Werner von Blomberg

ModernGeneralGermany1878 — 1946

First field marshal of the Third Reich, forced out by scandal.

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Quick Facts

Born

1878

Died

1946

Country

Germany

Era

Modern

Occupation

General

Score Overview

Military (10%)30

Political (20%)68

Influence (20%)52

Legacy (20%)45

Leadership (15%)68

Strategy (15%)60

Total Score53.6

Werner von Blomberg — Complete Timeline

1933 AD

Appointment as Minister of DefensePolitical Action◆ Major

Blomberg was appointed Reichswehrminister (Minister of Defense) in Hitler's cabinet. He was a key figure in the early Nazi rearmament, overseeing the expansion of the army and the creation of the Wehrmacht. He was promoted to Field Marshal in 1936.

Nazi GovernmentRearmamentWehrmacht

Impact: national

1938 AD

Blomberg-Fritsch AffairPolitical Action

Blomberg was forced to resign after his new wife was revealed to have a criminal record and a past as a prostitute. The scandal was exploited by G

Nazi PurgeScandalMilitary Leadership

Impact: nationaldestructive

1946 AD

Post-War Imprisonment and DeathOther

After World War II, Blomberg was captured by the Allies and held as a witness at the Nuremberg Trials. He died in captivity in 1946 before he could be tried. His legacy is that of a senior military figure who enabled Hitler's rise and rearmament.

Nuremberg TrialsPost-WarDeath

Impact: national