The 20 July plot against the leadership of the German Reich drew its conspirators from disparate backgrounds, including the career of Nikolaus von Üxküll-Gyllenband. Born in Kőszeg in 1877, he transitioned from a life in the Austro-Hungarian Army to a career as a businessman in Germany, ultimately becoming a participant in the resistance movement.
Early Military Career
Before his shift into the commercial sector, Üxküll-Gyllenband served as a soldier and military officer. His initial professional foundation was built within the Austro-Hungarian Army, where he served prior to the First World War. This period established his early credentials as military personnel before the geopolitical shifts of the early twentieth century fundamentally altered his career trajectory.
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Following the conclusion of the First World War, Üxküll-Gyllenband relocated to Germany and operated as a merchant. His business activities were conducted within the economic framework of the German Reich. During this era, his work focused on the management of corporate capital and market participation typical of the period.
Involvement in the 20 July Plot
In the autumn of 1939, Üxküll-Gyllenband initiated contact with his nephew, Claus von Stauffenberg, alongside Fritz-Dietlof von der Schulenburg. His stated motivation for participating in the resistance was the commission of atrocities within Nazi concentration camps. As planning for the 20 July plot progressed, he was designated to serve as the liaison officer for the military district encompassing the Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia.
Execution and Legal Proceedings
The Gestapo apprehended Üxküll-Gyllenband on 23 July 1944, shortly after the failure of the coup attempt. The Volksgerichtshof sentenced him to death on 14 September 1944. On that same date, he was executed at Plötzensee Prison. His death occurred alongside Michael von Matuschka, Hermann Josef Wehrle, and Heinrich zu Dohna-Schlobitten.
Fast facts
- Born: 1877, Kőszeg
- Died: 14 September 1944, Plötzensee Prison
- Citizenship: German Reich
- Occupations: Military officer, merchant, resistance fighter
- Relation: Uncle of Claus von Stauffenberg
- Arrest Date: 23 July 1944
Questions readers ask
What was his specific role in the 20 July plot?
He was designated to act as the liaison officer for the military district of the Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia.
Where did his death take place?
He was executed at Plötzensee Prison on 14 September 1944.
