The Dark Charisma of Adolf Hitler

A fascinating exploration of the character of Adolf Hitler: the most powerful and destructive man in history. Accompanies the BBC series

Adolf Hitler was an unlikely leader – fuelled by hate, incapable of forming normal human relationships, unwilling to debate political issues – and yet he commanded enormous support.

Fuelled by hate. Unable to form normal human relationships. Unwilling to debate political issues.

In many ways Adolf Hitler seemed an unlikely leader, yet he inspired millions, leading Germany into the cataclysmic events of the Second World War.

But how was Hitler able to exert such power over those around him?

Award-winning historian and documentary maker Laurence Rees draws on twenty years of research into the Third Reich, as well as contemporary accounts of people who knew Hitler, to examine the nature of Hitler's appeal and reveal the role his unique 'charisma' played in his success.

'Offering acerbic insight ... this arresting account asks and answers all the right questions'
Daily Telegraph