Explosion heard around the world... Or Elser succeeds
- Thread starter Shaby
- Start date
November 12, 100 miles south off Cape of Good Hope, command bridge of Admiral Graff Spee
Captain Hans Langsdorff scanned the horison with his high powered binoculars. The radio message that arrived in the clear the previous morning utterly confused him. He knew what happened in Germany, but he expected that, tragic as it might be, it wouldnt affect his mission. Yet, now he had orders to turn towards home. His crew was happy enough with it. Their cruise lasted two months, during which they sunk around 100000 tons of enemy shipping, all the while being lucky enough to slip through the numerous hunting vessels.
As the ships engine started to act up two weeks ago, the crew felt that their luck was running out. Although Langsdorff ordered engineers not to reveal the full extent of the damage to the engines, the entire crew was already whispering about it. In truth the order to sail back home could not have come at better moment. If only Altmark appeared on rendez-vous point as scheduled. His bunkers were a depleted and he didn't want to refuel in more constricted waters of the Northern Atlantic.
At that moment his navigation officer Juergen Wattenberg shouted "SMOKE! I see smoke on the horizon, bearing 120.". Hans instantly ordered "Helm, steer full right. Evasive manouver.". This was the second ship they met on this busy sea lane. Once, it was his prey. Now he was ordered not to pursue it. Well, while not entirely happy, he could live with those orders.
Captain Hans Langsdorff scanned the horison with his high powered binoculars. The radio message that arrived in the clear the previous morning utterly confused him. He knew what happened in Germany, but he expected that, tragic as it might be, it wouldnt affect his mission. Yet, now he had orders to turn towards home. His crew was happy enough with it. Their cruise lasted two months, during which they sunk around 100000 tons of enemy shipping, all the while being lucky enough to slip through the numerous hunting vessels.
As the ships engine started to act up two weeks ago, the crew felt that their luck was running out. Although Langsdorff ordered engineers not to reveal the full extent of the damage to the engines, the entire crew was already whispering about it. In truth the order to sail back home could not have come at better moment. If only Altmark appeared on rendez-vous point as scheduled. His bunkers were a depleted and he didn't want to refuel in more constricted waters of the Northern Atlantic.
At that moment his navigation officer Juergen Wattenberg shouted "SMOKE! I see smoke on the horizon, bearing 120.". Hans instantly ordered "Helm, steer full right. Evasive manouver.". This was the second ship they met on this busy sea lane. Once, it was his prey. Now he was ordered not to pursue it. Well, while not entirely happy, he could live with those orders.
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13 November, 1000 Zossen, OKH
Halder was waiting for Canaris and von Witzleben to arrive. He made an appointment with them as soon as he arrived to Berlin. Witzleben needed some time to prepare and arrive from Saarbruecken, where he was stationed as commander of the 1. Army. Halder decided that those two were the only people he could trust with the assignement he received from the President. This assignment required him to gather a few units (he deduced that two divisions would suffice) and deploy them in certain manner, so that SS and other organizations connected to it were effectively neutralised. He knew he could count with Brandenburg regiment and he intended to use them in... At that moment a buzzer on his desk sounded. "Let them in!" Halder said. Admiral Canaris and General Witzleben entered through the door after a few seconds. "Good morning, herr General." they said, greeting him. "Good morning. It is nice to see you again herr Witzleben. How is your army doing?" asked Halder amicably. "Training as usual, herr General." answered Witzleben.
"Well, I'd like to explain you the reason for this meeting. Gentlemen, the President himself has authorised me to conceive an operation. Objective of this operation is to neutralize certain organizations within Reich, opposed to our current leadership and suspected of plotting overthrowing of the legally established government by means of force. I was also authorised by the President himself to select trusted people to plan and execute this operation. What we discuss here you will be able to share with subordinates on need-to-know bases only and pending approval by me or President himself, should I be unavailable. Operation will be listed as "Schwarz". You are not supposed to make any written records of this operation. Furthermore, all troops movements pertinent to execution of Operation "Schwarz" must be either part of, or made to look like part of, routine troops movement. I must stress the significance of secrecy. Nobody and I mean nobody is to know of this operation except people who are absolutely indispensable for successful execution. Operation must be ready at any moment two weeks from now."
Witzleben was surprised by this. He didn't know that situation between Goering and SS (what other organization might be plotting) has deteriorated so quickly. Well, this might be satisfying, arresting those SS thugs was one activity he would enjoy. As first shock subsided, serious discussion between three officers started. It continued for two more hours. Operation "Schwarz" took its final form and they compiled list of candidates to be blessed with knowledge of it workings.
Halder was waiting for Canaris and von Witzleben to arrive. He made an appointment with them as soon as he arrived to Berlin. Witzleben needed some time to prepare and arrive from Saarbruecken, where he was stationed as commander of the 1. Army. Halder decided that those two were the only people he could trust with the assignement he received from the President. This assignment required him to gather a few units (he deduced that two divisions would suffice) and deploy them in certain manner, so that SS and other organizations connected to it were effectively neutralised. He knew he could count with Brandenburg regiment and he intended to use them in... At that moment a buzzer on his desk sounded. "Let them in!" Halder said. Admiral Canaris and General Witzleben entered through the door after a few seconds. "Good morning, herr General." they said, greeting him. "Good morning. It is nice to see you again herr Witzleben. How is your army doing?" asked Halder amicably. "Training as usual, herr General." answered Witzleben.
"Well, I'd like to explain you the reason for this meeting. Gentlemen, the President himself has authorised me to conceive an operation. Objective of this operation is to neutralize certain organizations within Reich, opposed to our current leadership and suspected of plotting overthrowing of the legally established government by means of force. I was also authorised by the President himself to select trusted people to plan and execute this operation. What we discuss here you will be able to share with subordinates on need-to-know bases only and pending approval by me or President himself, should I be unavailable. Operation will be listed as "Schwarz". You are not supposed to make any written records of this operation. Furthermore, all troops movements pertinent to execution of Operation "Schwarz" must be either part of, or made to look like part of, routine troops movement. I must stress the significance of secrecy. Nobody and I mean nobody is to know of this operation except people who are absolutely indispensable for successful execution. Operation must be ready at any moment two weeks from now."
Witzleben was surprised by this. He didn't know that situation between Goering and SS (what other organization might be plotting) has deteriorated so quickly. Well, this might be satisfying, arresting those SS thugs was one activity he would enjoy. As first shock subsided, serious discussion between three officers started. It continued for two more hours. Operation "Schwarz" took its final form and they compiled list of candidates to be blessed with knowledge of it workings.
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1100 Bletchley Park, Bletchley
Alexander Denniston and Arthur Bonsall seat in the office. They were going over latest report of "Hut 8", department trying to decypher German naval codes. Although head of the section Alan Turring expressed optimism, no significant breakthroughs were achieved yet. The only message that was recovered in entirety was sent in clear language, and that was nothing to brag about. The same result could have been achieved by a kid listening to the radio and knowing Morse code. It was Denniston who spoke first. "Sir, we need at least one whole machine to make further progress. All we have now are the primitive version of machine recovered by the Poles, and few pieces of current versions. Alan has promised that with the whole machine he will have entire system broken by Christmas."
Arthur, the director of the GC&CS, just looked at Alexander with bemused look on his face. "Sure, Alistair. I tried. I really tried." he started, irony visible in his voice "But commercial department of Olympia factory in Berlin answered that they have this huge backlog and that domestic orders will have priority for foreseeable time. They thanked me for interest and added that something might be done if I could pop them a Typex. Alistair, they tend to sink by the time we get near those machines. And our friends from the Army have yet to capture a single tent, let alone signal outfit of German army." Alistair laughed bitterly. "I know sir. But without the working machine, we will never be able to read their mail. Well not never, but not soon enough. Alan can read few words of every coded message. He swears that there are 12 subs in Atlantic. He even had aproximate positions for 7. But since they stopped talking, those subs could be anywhere. At least we know where the seven of them were heading. We informed Admirality, and they are trying to intercept them on the way to base. But it is large ocean."
Alexander Denniston and Arthur Bonsall seat in the office. They were going over latest report of "Hut 8", department trying to decypher German naval codes. Although head of the section Alan Turring expressed optimism, no significant breakthroughs were achieved yet. The only message that was recovered in entirety was sent in clear language, and that was nothing to brag about. The same result could have been achieved by a kid listening to the radio and knowing Morse code. It was Denniston who spoke first. "Sir, we need at least one whole machine to make further progress. All we have now are the primitive version of machine recovered by the Poles, and few pieces of current versions. Alan has promised that with the whole machine he will have entire system broken by Christmas."
Arthur, the director of the GC&CS, just looked at Alexander with bemused look on his face. "Sure, Alistair. I tried. I really tried." he started, irony visible in his voice "But commercial department of Olympia factory in Berlin answered that they have this huge backlog and that domestic orders will have priority for foreseeable time. They thanked me for interest and added that something might be done if I could pop them a Typex. Alistair, they tend to sink by the time we get near those machines. And our friends from the Army have yet to capture a single tent, let alone signal outfit of German army." Alistair laughed bitterly. "I know sir. But without the working machine, we will never be able to read their mail. Well not never, but not soon enough. Alan can read few words of every coded message. He swears that there are 12 subs in Atlantic. He even had aproximate positions for 7. But since they stopped talking, those subs could be anywhere. At least we know where the seven of them were heading. We informed Admirality, and they are trying to intercept them on the way to base. But it is large ocean."
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I start to like this one a lot. OK, I feel like it is going to be a "Göringwank", but I see nothing wrong with that. I sometimes ponder how to evade the worst-case-scenario...
If you are interested in Göring-related Alternate History, I am certain that it is not available in English, but Christian v. Ditfurth's novel "Der Konsul" might be of interest for you, although it is set in an alternate 1932/33.
Also as a German, I appreciate the German you throw in. Why not? I try to be more lenient on spelling and so on.
Considering the scene set in Linz: I feel that this is a very hasty timeframe for the burial. Also, Linz was not Hitler's birthplace, but Braunau (which is good deal away from Linz). I had the feeling that this was implied in this paragraph. Hitler went to school in Linz for a few years, though, IIRC. Considering the feelings of the inhabitants of Linz you presented, I suggest that just a year and a half past the Anschluss, this is a bit Austro-friendly.
But apart from that, the timeline really seems to work well so far.
If you are interested in Göring-related Alternate History, I am certain that it is not available in English, but Christian v. Ditfurth's novel "Der Konsul" might be of interest for you, although it is set in an alternate 1932/33.
Also as a German, I appreciate the German you throw in. Why not? I try to be more lenient on spelling and so on.
Considering the scene set in Linz: I feel that this is a very hasty timeframe for the burial. Also, Linz was not Hitler's birthplace, but Braunau (which is good deal away from Linz). I had the feeling that this was implied in this paragraph. Hitler went to school in Linz for a few years, though, IIRC. Considering the feelings of the inhabitants of Linz you presented, I suggest that just a year and a half past the Anschluss, this is a bit Austro-friendly.
But apart from that, the timeline really seems to work well so far.
Corrected in the post. Thanks for input. It has been a long time since I read "The Rising Sun" by Toland. I forgot a lot of this imperial political structure.
Eurofed
Banned
I concur. The Anschluss was actually very popular in Austria, and 1930s Austria was already a clericofascist dictatorship before it. The Austrians gave just as widespread and strong, if not greater in some regards, support to the Nazi regime as Germans proper. The image of Austria as the unwilling "first victim of Hitler" is a postwar fabrication, and a true Austrian separate national consciousness was only born after WWII.
Novenber 14th, 1113, Prague, former Czech Republic
Student Jan Opletal died 3 days earlier, due to the wounds he received during massive protests against Nazi occupation on 28th of October. His colleagues at the Prague University were walking in small groups around the University building. Approaching other students, they would just whisper "Tommorow, during funeral.". The information spread virally. Students told it to their parents, parents to their friends. Demonstrations might not be that big, had not the rumors of impending peace negotiations spread through population of the city. People listened to BBC in secret, so they heard what Nazi authorities hid from them.
Czechs decided, spontaneously and almost unanimously that this time, their voice will be heard. In 1938, they accepted the dictate of great powers, not wishing to needlesly suffer and trusting their Allies. Now they thought "Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me!". Having no weapons cashes, no organized armed forces nor any hope of outside assistance and no central organization, it was miracle that population of Prague decided to voice their protest. With no other alternative, the ordinary citizens would turn up at the funeral of the murdered student. They knew that there was danger in this, but falling back to humans primary instinct, they felt that security lay in numbers. No one would shoot thousands of unarmed civilians, would they?
Student Jan Opletal died 3 days earlier, due to the wounds he received during massive protests against Nazi occupation on 28th of October. His colleagues at the Prague University were walking in small groups around the University building. Approaching other students, they would just whisper "Tommorow, during funeral.". The information spread virally. Students told it to their parents, parents to their friends. Demonstrations might not be that big, had not the rumors of impending peace negotiations spread through population of the city. People listened to BBC in secret, so they heard what Nazi authorities hid from them.
Czechs decided, spontaneously and almost unanimously that this time, their voice will be heard. In 1938, they accepted the dictate of great powers, not wishing to needlesly suffer and trusting their Allies. Now they thought "Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me!". Having no weapons cashes, no organized armed forces nor any hope of outside assistance and no central organization, it was miracle that population of Prague decided to voice their protest. With no other alternative, the ordinary citizens would turn up at the funeral of the murdered student. They knew that there was danger in this, but falling back to humans primary instinct, they felt that security lay in numbers. No one would shoot thousands of unarmed civilians, would they?
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Well, I fell victim to this propaganda. I corrected the post and brought more in line to reality, with 'few' instead of 'many' inhabitants. The rest is unchanged though.
2100, Carinhall
Goering and his wife Emmy were sitting in the living room. This was the first time in the week that Goering had enough time to spend with his family. Edda was already asleep and Emmy hoped that she could talk to her husband. "Such a tragedy, Hermann. Poor Eva, I had to comfort her for two days. She was devastated on that night. I didn't dare leave her alone, for fear of what she would do. If only there was somebody for Magda. Luckily that the guard in front of the house heard the cries of the children and managed to save them before unfortunate woman got her hands on them. Do you know who did it, Hermann?"
"Well that brute Heinrich claims that it was the carpenter Elser they captured. I ordered him to work with Abwehr, but he is constantly dragging his feet about it. I am afraid the worst Emmy. It had to be a conspiracy. Simply had to be. Herr Himmler thinks he is so smart, but I found out that he executed 15 guards detailed with Hitler. I know his right hand, Heydrich conveniently had some "engagements" and left the security arrangements to unsuspecting Christian. After all this, he produces that poor carpenter, who would confess to being his own mother after 10 hours of hell they gave him. It all stinks. I ordered the Army to prepare new Night of Long Knives. I am just waiting for the right moment now. I do not want to do anything while we are at war. I hope English will come to their senses and accept my offer during next few days."
"Oh, Hermann, will there be any danger to you? Himmler looks so dangerous and evil. Edda always cries when she sees him." Emmy said, with fear audible in her voice.
"Don't worry my darling. I have taken precautions. The men that guard me have been thoroughly checked. I have ordered Leibstandarte taken out of SS command chain. Since yesterday they are augmented by Armies special unit, Brandenburg. I should be safe."
"Oh, my poor husband. Such responsibility, thrown on you and so quickly. Please be careful. I don't know how I could live without you."
Goering and his wife Emmy were sitting in the living room. This was the first time in the week that Goering had enough time to spend with his family. Edda was already asleep and Emmy hoped that she could talk to her husband. "Such a tragedy, Hermann. Poor Eva, I had to comfort her for two days. She was devastated on that night. I didn't dare leave her alone, for fear of what she would do. If only there was somebody for Magda. Luckily that the guard in front of the house heard the cries of the children and managed to save them before unfortunate woman got her hands on them. Do you know who did it, Hermann?"
"Well that brute Heinrich claims that it was the carpenter Elser they captured. I ordered him to work with Abwehr, but he is constantly dragging his feet about it. I am afraid the worst Emmy. It had to be a conspiracy. Simply had to be. Herr Himmler thinks he is so smart, but I found out that he executed 15 guards detailed with Hitler. I know his right hand, Heydrich conveniently had some "engagements" and left the security arrangements to unsuspecting Christian. After all this, he produces that poor carpenter, who would confess to being his own mother after 10 hours of hell they gave him. It all stinks. I ordered the Army to prepare new Night of Long Knives. I am just waiting for the right moment now. I do not want to do anything while we are at war. I hope English will come to their senses and accept my offer during next few days."
"Oh, Hermann, will there be any danger to you? Himmler looks so dangerous and evil. Edda always cries when she sees him." Emmy said, with fear audible in her voice.
"Don't worry my darling. I have taken precautions. The men that guard me have been thoroughly checked. I have ordered Leibstandarte taken out of SS command chain. Since yesterday they are augmented by Armies special unit, Brandenburg. I should be safe."
"Oh, my poor husband. Such responsibility, thrown on you and so quickly. Please be careful. I don't know how I could live without you."
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I don't want to be the spelling-nazi here, but this one is too cute, I have to point it out. "Liebstandarte" would be something like "Kind-standart" or even "Love-standart". Correct is "Leibstandarte", Leib meaning body as in the German word "Leibwächter", i.e. bodyguard.
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Also, I find it curious how everybody in your timeline points out the evil-looking Himmler. Sure the guy IS evil. But to me he looks like a quite regular looking guy, not particularly neat but neither the embodiment of evilness. Now Freisler would be an evil-looking guy, or Ernst Röhm.
Or check out Thierack, whom I mentioned earlier in this thread. That man looks like a Bond-villain!
http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thierack
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Also, I find it curious how everybody in your timeline points out the evil-looking Himmler. Sure the guy IS evil. But to me he looks like a quite regular looking guy, not particularly neat but neither the embodiment of evilness. Now Freisler would be an evil-looking guy, or Ernst Röhm.
Or check out Thierack, whom I mentioned earlier in this thread. That man looks like a Bond-villain!
http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thierack
Ouch. Thanks a lot. Not much I can do about it earlier in text. From now in it will be spelled correctly. it was the case of the eyes see what brain wants to see on my part.
Uhuh, that is my own impression projected on characters. Don't know why, but to me Himmler always looked kind of evil. I guess it is the eyes.
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November 15th, 0800, Prague, Prague Castle
Neurath sat in his office. After having served a year in the government with no ministry assigned to him, Hitler appointed him a Reichprotector of Bohemia and Moravia. Immediately he faced problems, as people he ruled were used to great deal of democracy and personal liberties. He insituted censorship and banned all political activity. This provoked only further unrest. After a virtual rebellion broke out, Neurath ordered police to open fire and disperse protesters. Since then, situation was tense, but peaceful overall. Although Neurath expected whole thing to defuse by itself within next days, he oredered a security company to be prepared to act in case something happened. Student that was shot during protests died and his funeral, scheduled later today, was going to be a public event.
The security chief has classified this event a high-risk event and ordered additional company of SS troops, training for deployment on the Western front to reinforce existing garison deployed in baracks attached to the castle. The unit consisted of Sudetten Germans, who were known for their particular hatred of Czechs. Neurath hoped this was unnecessarry precaution, but his security chief operated under "Better safe, than sorry" rule. Usual complement of Gestapo agents and informers were deployed around central square Vaclavske Namesti, around Malostranske Namesti and around cemetery. They had orders to observe and report, resorting to force only if things got out of hand.
Neurath sat in his office. After having served a year in the government with no ministry assigned to him, Hitler appointed him a Reichprotector of Bohemia and Moravia. Immediately he faced problems, as people he ruled were used to great deal of democracy and personal liberties. He insituted censorship and banned all political activity. This provoked only further unrest. After a virtual rebellion broke out, Neurath ordered police to open fire and disperse protesters. Since then, situation was tense, but peaceful overall. Although Neurath expected whole thing to defuse by itself within next days, he oredered a security company to be prepared to act in case something happened. Student that was shot during protests died and his funeral, scheduled later today, was going to be a public event.
The security chief has classified this event a high-risk event and ordered additional company of SS troops, training for deployment on the Western front to reinforce existing garison deployed in baracks attached to the castle. The unit consisted of Sudetten Germans, who were known for their particular hatred of Czechs. Neurath hoped this was unnecessarry precaution, but his security chief operated under "Better safe, than sorry" rule. Usual complement of Gestapo agents and informers were deployed around central square Vaclavske Namesti, around Malostranske Namesti and around cemetery. They had orders to observe and report, resorting to force only if things got out of hand.
abc123
Banned
The most people in that time considered Heydrich as most terrifying Nazi official. Even Himmler was happy when he died. Himmler on the other hand was seen by many as a chicken farmer who had big luck and become somebody important because he was on the right place in the right time.
Eurofed
Banned
Correct me if I'm mistaken but Goebbels took his own life, yes ? Well, this is an original development.
At the present moment, I assume this is the situation in the Nazi leadership:
Hitler: dead (obviously);
Ribbentrop: about to be purged, the non-lethal way;
Goering: in charge as Reichspresident, busy solidifying an alliance with the Heer and concocting peace negotitions with the Entente, and about to stage a purge of the SS radicals;
Himmler & Heydrich: dissatisfied with, and plotting against, Goering, about to be purged, the lethal way;
Hess: ???
Halder, Fitzleben, and the rest of the Wehrmacht High Command: busy solidifying an alliance with Goering and about to support his purge of his SS radicals, otherwise drafting a strategic offensive plan if the peace negotations flounder;
Who's Reichskanzler and n° 2 in the new hierarchy ? Or am I suppose this issue won't be solved till the power struggle between Goering and Himmler is settled ?
Well, this is an original development. At the present moment, I assume this is the situation in the Nazi leadership:
Hitler: dead (obviously);
Ribbentrop: about to be purged, the non-lethal way;
Goering: in charge as Reichspresident, busy solidifying an alliance with the Heer and concocting peace negotitions with the Entente, and about to stage a purge of the SS radicals;
Himmler & Heydrich: dissatisfied with, and plotting against, Goering, about to be purged, the lethal way;
Hess: ???
Halder, Fitzleben, and the rest of the Wehrmacht High Command: busy solidifying an alliance with Goering and about to support his purge of his SS radicals, otherwise drafting a strategic offensive plan if the peace negotations flounder;
Who's Reichskanzler and n° 2 in the new hierarchy ? Or am I suppose this issue won't be solved till the power struggle between Goering and Himmler is settled ?
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1012, Berlin, Bendlerblock, Reichs Ministry of Foreign affairs
"Herr Ribbentrop, I have decided that foreign policy at this moment is on critical juncture. Since it is now obvious that peace negotiations will include certain concesions on the part of Reichsgovernment and that such concesions are now indivisible from general military and economic situations of the Reich, I have decided to take the post of the Foreign minister personally. Remain sure that I value all the services you provided to the Reich in the capacity of Minister for Foreing affairs. Without your work, our successes of previous year would not have come to pass. In order not to slight your position, I have decided to employ your capabilities in another challenging task. This task is indispensable from the aspect of the economy of the Reich. Upon my decision, you, herr Ribbentrop, have been appointed as Special diplomatic and economic envoy to South America. You will travel to Argentina, where your HQ will be at our embassy in this friendly country. I assure you that entire German diplomatic service in South America will be at your disposal. Your goal is to secure favorable trade terms and enable Reich to obtain raw materials. Letter of the Ministry of economics, attached to my letter will provide with detailed figures you need to know in order to work on the task. Rest assured that this posting if succesfully completed will be adequately rewarded.
Yours Truly,
Hermann Goering, Reichspraesident"
After reading this letter, Ribbentrop was stunned. The two men who delivered them were standing by the door, waiting. Ribbentrop said "Gentlemen, thank you for delivering this letter. I must now go see the Reichspresident." "I am sorry herr Minister, that is impossible. Herr President is currently occupied. We have instructions to escort you to your home, where you will pack for immediate journey. We are afraid that itinerrary is a bit complicated by the war, and since your task is suficiently urgent, arrangements have been rushed by authority of herr President. We must leave immediately." said the taller escort. "But he cannot do this to ME..." raged Ribbentrop. Then he realized that he could. And that he just did. He wondered how long will exile, for this was exile, no sense pretending it was anything but, last.
Meantime in Reichskanzlei
It has been long time since he last sat with all the heads of the industry. He called this meeting in order to consider the economic problems Reich faced. His secondary goal was to strengthen his own position. He knew that earning big industrialists trust was vital for control of economy. And control of economy was in turn vital for control of the Reich. "Gentlemen," Goering started "as you all know, Reich faces significant difficulties in securing important strategic materials critical for operation of our industry. Naval blockade enforced by our enemies has impaired our ability to import iron ore, rubber, oil, wolfram and copper, to mention but a few materials that many of your companies need. Although we intend to start negotioations with the enemy, we cannot be sure how long this situation will continue. What I expect of you is to increase rationalization to maximum. No single gram of material can be wasted. You understand that our production priority, in view of current situation, is material for war." "Herr president, current shortage of raw materials is unbearable in long term." exclaimed Funk. He has been pressing for this meeting with Goering for few days now. Finally Goering agreed and meeting was scheduled. "I know herr Minister. I have decided to send herr Ribbentrop to South America in order to try to secure us imports from there. However, I am pessimistic as to his chances, and then there is still the problem of shipping the goods. We need something much closer, something that cannot be choked off by enemy navy. And I have an alternative. Herr Schulenburg has sent us a report that government of Soviet Union is interested in some sort of trade agreement between our countries. He has indicated that they want the meeting between highest authorities of both parties." Alfried Krupp, representing the largest steel producer in Germany said "Herr Praesident, the problem is not only raw materials. I, for one, face severe labor shortages if mobilization is extended." "Well, I will give Herr Funks ministry authority to employ and mobilize any able body inhabitant of the Reich." answered Goering "That should alleviate some of the shortages."
"Herr Funk, as we have lost services of herr Goebbels, I am forced to appoint you as Minister of Public enlightment and Propaganda. Herr Todt, you will take over herr Funks place, while I intend to place herr Albert Speer to replace you as head of the Organisation Todt. The necessarry paperwork will be completed by the end of week, but changes are effective immediately." announced Goering. "Office of the Four Year plan will be joined with the Ministry of Economics."
"Herr Thomas, do you have anything to add?" asked Goering. General-major Thomas answered "Herr president it is the estimate of OKW economics staff that we can support the war effort with extremely careful rationalization of resources. However, large scale increase in production of war material is not possible without prior investment. Our railways are in particularly dire conditions. Herr Dorpmueller has provided detailed report. Deutche Reichsbahn lacks enough locomotives and we cannot transport coal from the mines to the factories." Goering, who knew some of this situation tried to offer some consolation "Herr Thomas, we do not expect any large scale military operations in the next few months. As I read in herr Dorppmueller report, some of the problems are largely seasonal, and by the end of winter most of our problems should be solved. I hope that we will manage to come to diplomatic solution for our conflict, after which we will be able to solve these problems systematically. In the meantime, priority remains in respective order: needs of Wehrmacht, then of arms industry and then of civilian needs. I conclude this meeting. Thank you gentlemen."
1228 Prague, Charles Bridge
Hauptsturmfuehrer Roland Klein observed as his company was establishing a blocking point on the bridge. They have been ordered to block approach to the Prague Castle, since Gestapo agents observed huge crowd of Czechs marching through the city, heading towards the bridge. According to informants a group of students, no doubt the same group that incited the protests two weeks ago, incited the mob to protest German authorities. SS company looked forward to some activity to break the boredom of routine training. They were fully armed and he ordered machinegun section of his company to set up their two MG34 machineguns at the center of the blockage. On the other end of the bridge, security company of the castle formed a cordon formation. The purpose of SS troops was to act as fall back point in case crowd managed to overwhelm the security company. Roland doubted this would happen, but he would be ready. No Czech mob will pass his troops. The men in his company were all young, 18 year old boys who lived in Sudetenland, and most hated Czechs with passion.
At that moment, a noise filled the air. It was the noise of thousands of people chanting. Roland couldn't understand what they were saying, but he was sure it wasn't very flattering to Germans. When crowd reached the security cordon, they stopped. Front row of protesters closed together, and hand in hand they adanced on security cordon. For a moment it looked like the cordon would stop them, but then the line of troops bent inside toward the bridge, and second later it broke. Protesters started pushing, and then a few of young man picked one of soldiers and dropped him in Vltava over the bridge railing. Roland had his orders what to do in this case. He just belowed "Machinengewehr sektion, bereiten." He heard the distinct sound of MG-34 being chambered. His soldiers tensed, training their weapons towards crowd. As crowd reached half of the bridge, soldier of his unit shouted "Achtung! Citizens of Prague you must disperse now! If you do not disperse we will open fire!". Crowd didn't show any sign of stopping. They might not even have heard the call. Roland belowed "Einrichten!". Weapons were ready, and soldiers took firing position. They were positioned in two rows, 20 people each. Machineguns were put on the trucks, parked in blocking position. Warning was repeated once more, but crowd just continued. They were less than twenty meters away. At that moment, Roland ordered "FEUER!". Sounds of rifles firing echoed over the river. First row of protesters fell to the ground, but people behind just kept on coming. Sound that came next was unmistakeble. It was the sound of machinguns firing in anger. Soldiers, manning the formidable antipersonnel weapon single handedly responsible for death of hundreds of thousands in the previous war, used long bursts, firing more than 500 rounds into the crowd. All hell broke lose. If the first salvo of rifle fire didn't frighten the people, machinegun fire absolutely terrorised them. Many just dropped to the ground, not wounded, but hoping to avoid being shot. Others turned to run. Third echalon of SS troops, passed between two rows of men who just fired on the crowd. They didn't carry firearms, but batons.
At the end of the day, more than 100 people were counted dead. Among them there were two Germans of the security detachment. Over a thousand was seriously wounded or beaten. All were arrested and sent to Dachau. Gestapo agents and informers identified more prominent protesters, who were later arrested in their homes. Final figure of arrested and deported people climbed to 2350. The terror of that day remained imprinted in minds of Prague people. The lesson they learned from this was that without the careful organization and at least some weapons, no amount of mass protest would deter Germans. Although Neurath hoped the events wouldn't get to this point, he justified the actions of the day. Hauptsturmfuehrer Roland was commended for braking up the demonstrations. Neurath also ordered Gestapo office of Prague to pay close attention to people who try to leave city in following days. He didn't want news of this event to spread outside of Reich. But, in this he was already late.
"Herr Ribbentrop, I have decided that foreign policy at this moment is on critical juncture. Since it is now obvious that peace negotiations will include certain concesions on the part of Reichsgovernment and that such concesions are now indivisible from general military and economic situations of the Reich, I have decided to take the post of the Foreign minister personally. Remain sure that I value all the services you provided to the Reich in the capacity of Minister for Foreing affairs. Without your work, our successes of previous year would not have come to pass. In order not to slight your position, I have decided to employ your capabilities in another challenging task. This task is indispensable from the aspect of the economy of the Reich. Upon my decision, you, herr Ribbentrop, have been appointed as Special diplomatic and economic envoy to South America. You will travel to Argentina, where your HQ will be at our embassy in this friendly country. I assure you that entire German diplomatic service in South America will be at your disposal. Your goal is to secure favorable trade terms and enable Reich to obtain raw materials. Letter of the Ministry of economics, attached to my letter will provide with detailed figures you need to know in order to work on the task. Rest assured that this posting if succesfully completed will be adequately rewarded.
Yours Truly,
Hermann Goering, Reichspraesident"
After reading this letter, Ribbentrop was stunned. The two men who delivered them were standing by the door, waiting. Ribbentrop said "Gentlemen, thank you for delivering this letter. I must now go see the Reichspresident." "I am sorry herr Minister, that is impossible. Herr President is currently occupied. We have instructions to escort you to your home, where you will pack for immediate journey. We are afraid that itinerrary is a bit complicated by the war, and since your task is suficiently urgent, arrangements have been rushed by authority of herr President. We must leave immediately." said the taller escort. "But he cannot do this to ME..." raged Ribbentrop. Then he realized that he could. And that he just did. He wondered how long will exile, for this was exile, no sense pretending it was anything but, last.
Meantime in Reichskanzlei
It has been long time since he last sat with all the heads of the industry. He called this meeting in order to consider the economic problems Reich faced. His secondary goal was to strengthen his own position. He knew that earning big industrialists trust was vital for control of economy. And control of economy was in turn vital for control of the Reich. "Gentlemen," Goering started "as you all know, Reich faces significant difficulties in securing important strategic materials critical for operation of our industry. Naval blockade enforced by our enemies has impaired our ability to import iron ore, rubber, oil, wolfram and copper, to mention but a few materials that many of your companies need. Although we intend to start negotioations with the enemy, we cannot be sure how long this situation will continue. What I expect of you is to increase rationalization to maximum. No single gram of material can be wasted. You understand that our production priority, in view of current situation, is material for war." "Herr president, current shortage of raw materials is unbearable in long term." exclaimed Funk. He has been pressing for this meeting with Goering for few days now. Finally Goering agreed and meeting was scheduled. "I know herr Minister. I have decided to send herr Ribbentrop to South America in order to try to secure us imports from there. However, I am pessimistic as to his chances, and then there is still the problem of shipping the goods. We need something much closer, something that cannot be choked off by enemy navy. And I have an alternative. Herr Schulenburg has sent us a report that government of Soviet Union is interested in some sort of trade agreement between our countries. He has indicated that they want the meeting between highest authorities of both parties." Alfried Krupp, representing the largest steel producer in Germany said "Herr Praesident, the problem is not only raw materials. I, for one, face severe labor shortages if mobilization is extended." "Well, I will give Herr Funks ministry authority to employ and mobilize any able body inhabitant of the Reich." answered Goering "That should alleviate some of the shortages."
"Herr Funk, as we have lost services of herr Goebbels, I am forced to appoint you as Minister of Public enlightment and Propaganda. Herr Todt, you will take over herr Funks place, while I intend to place herr Albert Speer to replace you as head of the Organisation Todt. The necessarry paperwork will be completed by the end of week, but changes are effective immediately." announced Goering. "Office of the Four Year plan will be joined with the Ministry of Economics."
"Herr Thomas, do you have anything to add?" asked Goering. General-major Thomas answered "Herr president it is the estimate of OKW economics staff that we can support the war effort with extremely careful rationalization of resources. However, large scale increase in production of war material is not possible without prior investment. Our railways are in particularly dire conditions. Herr Dorpmueller has provided detailed report. Deutche Reichsbahn lacks enough locomotives and we cannot transport coal from the mines to the factories." Goering, who knew some of this situation tried to offer some consolation "Herr Thomas, we do not expect any large scale military operations in the next few months. As I read in herr Dorppmueller report, some of the problems are largely seasonal, and by the end of winter most of our problems should be solved. I hope that we will manage to come to diplomatic solution for our conflict, after which we will be able to solve these problems systematically. In the meantime, priority remains in respective order: needs of Wehrmacht, then of arms industry and then of civilian needs. I conclude this meeting. Thank you gentlemen."
1228 Prague, Charles Bridge
Hauptsturmfuehrer Roland Klein observed as his company was establishing a blocking point on the bridge. They have been ordered to block approach to the Prague Castle, since Gestapo agents observed huge crowd of Czechs marching through the city, heading towards the bridge. According to informants a group of students, no doubt the same group that incited the protests two weeks ago, incited the mob to protest German authorities. SS company looked forward to some activity to break the boredom of routine training. They were fully armed and he ordered machinegun section of his company to set up their two MG34 machineguns at the center of the blockage. On the other end of the bridge, security company of the castle formed a cordon formation. The purpose of SS troops was to act as fall back point in case crowd managed to overwhelm the security company. Roland doubted this would happen, but he would be ready. No Czech mob will pass his troops. The men in his company were all young, 18 year old boys who lived in Sudetenland, and most hated Czechs with passion.
At that moment, a noise filled the air. It was the noise of thousands of people chanting. Roland couldn't understand what they were saying, but he was sure it wasn't very flattering to Germans. When crowd reached the security cordon, they stopped. Front row of protesters closed together, and hand in hand they adanced on security cordon. For a moment it looked like the cordon would stop them, but then the line of troops bent inside toward the bridge, and second later it broke. Protesters started pushing, and then a few of young man picked one of soldiers and dropped him in Vltava over the bridge railing. Roland had his orders what to do in this case. He just belowed "Machinengewehr sektion, bereiten." He heard the distinct sound of MG-34 being chambered. His soldiers tensed, training their weapons towards crowd. As crowd reached half of the bridge, soldier of his unit shouted "Achtung! Citizens of Prague you must disperse now! If you do not disperse we will open fire!". Crowd didn't show any sign of stopping. They might not even have heard the call. Roland belowed "Einrichten!". Weapons were ready, and soldiers took firing position. They were positioned in two rows, 20 people each. Machineguns were put on the trucks, parked in blocking position. Warning was repeated once more, but crowd just continued. They were less than twenty meters away. At that moment, Roland ordered "FEUER!". Sounds of rifles firing echoed over the river. First row of protesters fell to the ground, but people behind just kept on coming. Sound that came next was unmistakeble. It was the sound of machinguns firing in anger. Soldiers, manning the formidable antipersonnel weapon single handedly responsible for death of hundreds of thousands in the previous war, used long bursts, firing more than 500 rounds into the crowd. All hell broke lose. If the first salvo of rifle fire didn't frighten the people, machinegun fire absolutely terrorised them. Many just dropped to the ground, not wounded, but hoping to avoid being shot. Others turned to run. Third echalon of SS troops, passed between two rows of men who just fired on the crowd. They didn't carry firearms, but batons.
At the end of the day, more than 100 people were counted dead. Among them there were two Germans of the security detachment. Over a thousand was seriously wounded or beaten. All were arrested and sent to Dachau. Gestapo agents and informers identified more prominent protesters, who were later arrested in their homes. Final figure of arrested and deported people climbed to 2350. The terror of that day remained imprinted in minds of Prague people. The lesson they learned from this was that without the careful organization and at least some weapons, no amount of mass protest would deter Germans. Although Neurath hoped the events wouldn't get to this point, he justified the actions of the day. Hauptsturmfuehrer Roland was commended for braking up the demonstrations. Neurath also ordered Gestapo office of Prague to pay close attention to people who try to leave city in following days. He didn't want news of this event to spread outside of Reich. But, in this he was already late.
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My dear faithful readers (all 40 of you). I would like you to provide some feedback on timeline. Please PM me, in order not to clog this thread.
1. How do you estimate plausibility of the thread so far.
2. Is it fun and interesting?
3. Is it detailed enough?
4. Are characters realistic?
5. Is it dynamic enough?
6. Are updates frequent enough?
7. Anything else you might want to point out.
Thank you for reading this timeline. Please rate all except the last question with 1 to 5. 1 lowest, 5 highest grade and send responses on PM.
Till next update.
1. How do you estimate plausibility of the thread so far.
2. Is it fun and interesting?
3. Is it detailed enough?
4. Are characters realistic?
5. Is it dynamic enough?
6. Are updates frequent enough?
7. Anything else you might want to point out.
Thank you for reading this timeline. Please rate all except the last question with 1 to 5. 1 lowest, 5 highest grade and send responses on PM.
Till next update.
1326 Hours, Reichskanzlei
Having finished his previous meeting, Goering started preparing for his next guest. He had to be careful and pick his words with care. Although he was sure that no peaceful solution to ongoing confrontation with SS is possible anymore, he was not going to escalate the conflict to the next level without at least trying to reconcile with Himmler. Himmler himself eagerly accepted invitation for the meeting, since he insisted on earliest possible time. Goering was less satisfied with this choice, since he wanted to delay possible final confrontation until peace or at least truce with foreign enemies. Anyway, this worked just as well... He retrieved a cigar from the box on his table and just as he was about to light it, a buzzer on his desk sounded. "Herr Reichsfuehrer SS to see you herr Praesident, his secretary announced through the speaker. "Let him in." As the doors opened, Himmler walked into the room. He was wearing fresh dress uniform, no doubt with intention to induce respect. Well, perhaps it worked on the other people, but Goering was beyond the dubious charm, or whatever it was that got Himmler to the position he occupied. Himmler stopped and extended his right hand. "Herr Himmler, good afternoon!" Goering greeted him. "Good afternoon, herr Praesident." This time there was no irony, but Goering was sure that the words were deliberately pronounced with hesitation.
"Herr Himmler, I invited you to get a report on your joint investigation. It was due yesterday, but I haven't found anything on my desk." Himmler responded "Well, herr Praesident, I do not want to clog your desk with useless reports of 'No further progress in investigation.'. Elser insists, despite all our efforts, that he worked alone. We checked his expenditures, we interviewed neighbours, arrested entire family, everything was overturned in his house and shop. We could not establish any connection between him and any group." "Herr Reichsfuehrer" Goering used the proper official title to enforce the meaning "That is impossible. I expect results, not excuses. Herr Himmler, I also gather that you are against the peace proposal I gave. Are you aware of situation in which we are? Both economically and militarily?" asked Goering. Himmler answered "Herr Praesident, I am not an economist. But as a soldier, I am aware only that ones enemies should be attacked. I believe we can win. We have better discipline and more determination. Those are decisive values in war. Our generals barely qualify for the name of soldier. My oppinion is---" Goering interrupted him "Oh yes, you would know, from your extensive experience in the field of battle. Our general staff is old institution. One of the oldest in this country. I must and I will trust their judgment. It seems to me you should keep your mind on security services and not trying to run the war instead of me and people payed to do it." Himmler was outraged by this retort. "Herr praesident, I will not stand to this. SS is the only protector of our ideology. Even your position depends on it." "Is that a threat herr Himmler?" asked Goering. "No herr Praesident, it is merely a statement of fact. If you will excuse me, I must leave you." Himmler stood up, without waiting for response. Goering just waived his hand in dismissal.
'So it comes to this. I cannot believe that history repeats like this.' Goering lamented. He didn't want internal conflict at this moment, but it was now inevitable. He was being threatened and he had to respond. He took the phone and said "Get me Chief of staff."
Meanwhile, Downing street 10, London
"Gentlemen, as you know, after confering with French government and governments of our dominions, decision has been made to start negotiation with government of Germany." Chamberlain opened the meeting "We have agreed to start first round of negotiations in two days in The Hague. We intend to request from the German government to demilitarize the border between France and Germany, evacuate areas of Poland to be determined during negotiations, to allow for international control of armaments and readiness of German army for next ten years. We have gathered here to determine minimum demands acceptable to us."
"I think we cannot accept any terms short of surrender of Germany and evacuation of all areas occupied after 1938." spoke Churchill. "They must disband all but 20 divisions. That is my oppinion, and I believe great part of public." Chamberlain expected something like this from his bellicose Minister of Navy. "Sir Winston, while your oppinion is valued, I must oppose you. Most of Conservative and Labour party disagree with you. My voters disagree with you. This country does not need to continue this war if principles for which we joined it can be fulfilled without further suffering." Halifax added "We have preliminary proposal from German government which in large part complies with our wishes. Details remain to be discussed, but in the whole I think we may receive a fair deal." Nobody else spoke. Churchill decided to offer his resignation from the cabinet. He decided not to have any part in Appeasment 2.
1425 Kremlin, Moscow
"Comrade Chairman, our troops will be ready for attack in two weeks!" reported Voroshilov to Stalin. "We have nearly half a million troops on the border, and only logistic preparations remain to be completed. We shall roll over Finland in two weeks." "Very well Comrade Marshal. We have exhausted all attempts of diplomatic solution. Only a week remains until our ultimatum expires. Expect an order to attack in two weeks then. I presume your plan is the same as we spoke?" "You are right to do so, Comrade Chairman." finished Voroshilov. "I will notify Beria to prepare his side of operation. We will need an excuse in order not to make it look like agression in the eyes of the world." Stalin said, smiling smugly.
Having finished his previous meeting, Goering started preparing for his next guest. He had to be careful and pick his words with care. Although he was sure that no peaceful solution to ongoing confrontation with SS is possible anymore, he was not going to escalate the conflict to the next level without at least trying to reconcile with Himmler. Himmler himself eagerly accepted invitation for the meeting, since he insisted on earliest possible time. Goering was less satisfied with this choice, since he wanted to delay possible final confrontation until peace or at least truce with foreign enemies. Anyway, this worked just as well... He retrieved a cigar from the box on his table and just as he was about to light it, a buzzer on his desk sounded. "Herr Reichsfuehrer SS to see you herr Praesident, his secretary announced through the speaker. "Let him in." As the doors opened, Himmler walked into the room. He was wearing fresh dress uniform, no doubt with intention to induce respect. Well, perhaps it worked on the other people, but Goering was beyond the dubious charm, or whatever it was that got Himmler to the position he occupied. Himmler stopped and extended his right hand. "Herr Himmler, good afternoon!" Goering greeted him. "Good afternoon, herr Praesident." This time there was no irony, but Goering was sure that the words were deliberately pronounced with hesitation.
"Herr Himmler, I invited you to get a report on your joint investigation. It was due yesterday, but I haven't found anything on my desk." Himmler responded "Well, herr Praesident, I do not want to clog your desk with useless reports of 'No further progress in investigation.'. Elser insists, despite all our efforts, that he worked alone. We checked his expenditures, we interviewed neighbours, arrested entire family, everything was overturned in his house and shop. We could not establish any connection between him and any group." "Herr Reichsfuehrer" Goering used the proper official title to enforce the meaning "That is impossible. I expect results, not excuses. Herr Himmler, I also gather that you are against the peace proposal I gave. Are you aware of situation in which we are? Both economically and militarily?" asked Goering. Himmler answered "Herr Praesident, I am not an economist. But as a soldier, I am aware only that ones enemies should be attacked. I believe we can win. We have better discipline and more determination. Those are decisive values in war. Our generals barely qualify for the name of soldier. My oppinion is---" Goering interrupted him "Oh yes, you would know, from your extensive experience in the field of battle. Our general staff is old institution. One of the oldest in this country. I must and I will trust their judgment. It seems to me you should keep your mind on security services and not trying to run the war instead of me and people payed to do it." Himmler was outraged by this retort. "Herr praesident, I will not stand to this. SS is the only protector of our ideology. Even your position depends on it." "Is that a threat herr Himmler?" asked Goering. "No herr Praesident, it is merely a statement of fact. If you will excuse me, I must leave you." Himmler stood up, without waiting for response. Goering just waived his hand in dismissal.
'So it comes to this. I cannot believe that history repeats like this.' Goering lamented. He didn't want internal conflict at this moment, but it was now inevitable. He was being threatened and he had to respond. He took the phone and said "Get me Chief of staff."
Meanwhile, Downing street 10, London
"Gentlemen, as you know, after confering with French government and governments of our dominions, decision has been made to start negotiation with government of Germany." Chamberlain opened the meeting "We have agreed to start first round of negotiations in two days in The Hague. We intend to request from the German government to demilitarize the border between France and Germany, evacuate areas of Poland to be determined during negotiations, to allow for international control of armaments and readiness of German army for next ten years. We have gathered here to determine minimum demands acceptable to us."
"I think we cannot accept any terms short of surrender of Germany and evacuation of all areas occupied after 1938." spoke Churchill. "They must disband all but 20 divisions. That is my oppinion, and I believe great part of public." Chamberlain expected something like this from his bellicose Minister of Navy. "Sir Winston, while your oppinion is valued, I must oppose you. Most of Conservative and Labour party disagree with you. My voters disagree with you. This country does not need to continue this war if principles for which we joined it can be fulfilled without further suffering." Halifax added "We have preliminary proposal from German government which in large part complies with our wishes. Details remain to be discussed, but in the whole I think we may receive a fair deal." Nobody else spoke. Churchill decided to offer his resignation from the cabinet. He decided not to have any part in Appeasment 2.
1425 Kremlin, Moscow
"Comrade Chairman, our troops will be ready for attack in two weeks!" reported Voroshilov to Stalin. "We have nearly half a million troops on the border, and only logistic preparations remain to be completed. We shall roll over Finland in two weeks." "Very well Comrade Marshal. We have exhausted all attempts of diplomatic solution. Only a week remains until our ultimatum expires. Expect an order to attack in two weeks then. I presume your plan is the same as we spoke?" "You are right to do so, Comrade Chairman." finished Voroshilov. "I will notify Beria to prepare his side of operation. We will need an excuse in order not to make it look like agression in the eyes of the world." Stalin said, smiling smugly.
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