Over 5,000 death sentences were issued by Roland Freisler during his three-year tenure as president of the People's Court in Nazi Germany. A jurist and politician who served as State Secretary of the Reich Ministry of Justice, he became known for aggressive courtroom histrionics and the systematic humiliation of defendants appearing before him in Berlin.
Military Service and Imprisonment
Freisler enrolled at Kiel University before the outbreak of World War I, which necessitated an interruption of his legal education. In 1914, he enlisted as an officer cadet in the 167th Infantry Regiment. He earned the Iron Cross 2nd class for combat actions on the Eastern Front. Wounded in 1915, he was captured by Imperial Russian forces. During his time as a prisoner of war, he served in administrative capacities within the camp.
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Upon returning to Germany, Freisler completed his studies at the University of Jena, earning a Doctorate of Law in 1922. He joined the Nazi Party in 1925, acting as a defense lawyer for members involved in political violence. He held several political roles, including deputy Gauleiter in Hessen-Nassau Nord and membership in the Prussian Landtag. In 1933, he was elected to the Reichstag, a position he occupied until his death.
Administrative and Judicial Authority
Following the Nazi seizure of power, Freisler moved through the Prussian Ministry of Justice, eventually becoming State Secretary in the unified Reich Ministry of Justice in 1935. In 1942, he attended the Wannsee Conference as a representative for Franz Schlegelberger. That same year, he succeeded Otto Georg Thierack as president of the People's Court, where he oversaw high-profile trials, including those against the White Rose group and participants in the 20 July plot.
Death
Freisler died in Berlin on 3 February 1945. His death occurred during an American bombing raid on the city. He was subsequently buried at the Waldfriedhof Dahlem.
Fast facts
- Born: 1893, Celle
- Died: 1945, Berlin
- Education: University of Jena
- Positions: Judge of the People's Court, Reichstag member
- Military Award: Iron Cross
- Burial: Waldfriedhof Dahlem
- Membership: National Socialist Association of German Legal Professionals
Questions readers ask
What was Freisler's role during the war?
He served as the president of the People's Court from 1942 to 1945, presiding over political show trials.
How did he die?
He was killed in Berlin during an American bombing raid in February 1945.
Achievements
- Educated at University of Jena
- Worked as judge, politician and lawyer
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