The Arms of Krupp

1587-1968

By: William Manchester

Narrated by: Paul Boehmer

In this narrative of extraordinary richness, depth, and authority, America's preeminent biographer/historian explored the German national character as no other writer has done. The Arms of Krupp brings to life Europe's wealthiest, most powerful family, a 400-year German dynasty that developed the world's most technologically advanced weapons, from cannons to submarines to antiaircraft guns; provided arms to generations of German leaders, including the Kaiser and Hitler; operated private concentration camps during the Nazi era; survived conviction at Nuremberg; and wielded enormous influence on the course of world events. William Manchester's galvanizing account of the rise and fall of the Krupp dynasty is history as it should be written - alive with all its terrifying power.

©1968 William Manchester (P)2017 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Exceptional in Every Regard!

The narrator, Paul Boehmer, was superb. His intonation, and specifically, his excellent German literacy made the entire history of The Arms of Krupp come alive. It was hard to put this 972 page book down - in large part because of Mr. Boehmer’s narration. I read the book and followed the narrative with very satisfactory result. I found myself frequently replaying entire sections of his narrative, each time finding deeper meaning and a better understanding of this fascinating world, business and political history. There are volumes of historical value in each chapter. This book and the skilled narration illuminated multiple aspects of World War II history I had been overlooking for more than 50 years of reading, and research. I am most grateful to Audible, William Manchester and especially, Mr. Boehmer for a tremendous experience and terrific learning opportunity. Upon reflection, I was most disappointed to see such a family history come to an end because of its prodigy’s lack of responsibility and interest. History can highlight many disappointing aspects of life and human frailties. Nonetheless, all in all an exceptional education and experience. Well done - all!

Manchester!

Manchester is the best and the story of Germany thru the Krupp lens is fascinating

Fantastic story and narration

This book follows the Krupp family in fantastic detail and precision. The narration is flawless and the fact that german words and phrases are sprinkled in to the text gives the book extra spice. Overall fantastic reading and I would recommend it to anyone who is interested in German history.

The excellent narration and superbly interesting writing kept me engaged throughout the entire book

I loved this book. It was exceptionally accurate and it didn’t shy away from the duplicitous nature of the Krupp family. Anyone who believes this book’s bias is a bad thing is a fool—the main Krupps beginning with Alfred were horrible people. Alfred engaged in illegal and almost unbelievable international tampering to sell more guns, held views on labor that, even in his own time, were considered villainously excessive, and was a merchant of death to boot. His son Friedrich was a pedophile, and possessed a cruel and craven nature that led to him institutionalizing his perfectly sane wife to prevent her from revealing his deviancy. All the Krupps following Friedrich were fanatical Nazis. The only problem I have with this book, is it’s forgiving tone towards Bertha, who, owned the concern, knew of the slave labor and atrocities it was being used for, and chose to turn a blind eye.

Classic

No other book will ever tell this story so well. That Manchester dug in and stood his moral ground at a time when Nazi apologism was politically expedient and culturally ubiquitous is part of what makes this book definitive and timeless.