Lutz Graf Schwerin von Krosigk managed German state finances from 1932 until 1945, bridging the Weimar Republic and the collapse of the Nazi government. A career jurist and bureaucrat, he occupied a central administrative role throughout the regime, eventually serving as the Leading Minister in the brief, final administration headed by Karl Dönitz.
Early Career and Education
Born in 1887 in Rathmannsdorf, Krosigk followed a conventional path for a member of the German nobility. He attended the Klosterschule Roßleben before studying at the Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg and the University of Lausanne. As a Rhodes Scholar at Oriel College, Oxford, he pursued further studies. During World War I, he served in the military as a lieutenant, earning the Iron Cross first and second classes.
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In 1932, Franz von Papen appointed Krosigk as Reich Minister of Finance. He maintained this post through the transition to Hitler’s leadership, serving continuously until 1945. His ministry played a critical role in the systemic persecution of Jewish citizens through the seizure of property and the laundering of assets. In 1937, he was awarded the Golden Party Badge, which automatically conferred membership in the Nazi Party.
The Flensburg Government
Following the deaths of Hitler and Joseph Goebbels in May 1945, President Karl Dönitz tasked Krosigk with heading the administration. Serving as Leading Minister and Foreign Minister, he operated from Flensburg as Allied forces occupied Germany. His government exercised limited authority before being dissolved by the Allies, leading to the arrest of its members.
Post-War Prosecution
In 1949, Krosigk faced trial at the Ministries Trial. The court convicted him of financing concentration camps and laundering stolen property, sentencing him to 10 years in prison. His sentence was commuted in 1951. After his release, he lived in Essen and worked as a publicist and author until his death in 1977.
Fast facts
- Born: 1887, Rathmannsdorf
- Died: 1977, Essen
- Education: Oriel College, Oxford
- Finance Minister: 1932-1945
- Party Membership: 3,805,231
- 1949 Sentencing: 10 years prison
- Languages: German
Questions readers ask
What was his role in the final days of the war?
He served as the Leading Minister and Foreign Minister within the Flensburg Government from May 1945 until its dissolution by Allied forces.
Was he a member of the Nazi Party?
Yes, he became a party member in 1937 upon receiving the Golden Party Badge.
Achievements
- Educated at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, University of Lausanne and Oriel College
- Worked as politician, jurist and diplomat
