Paul von Hindenburg(1847-1934)

German general and politician. Hindenburg was Germany’s most famous war hero during World War I, where he led the German troops to victory against the Russians. From 1916-1918 he was commander-in-chief of the German army. In 1925 Hindenburg was elected Reich President without any party affiliation; he was re-elected in 1932, beating Hitler. Beginning in 1930, the ultra-conservative Hindenburg appointed successive Reich Chancellors who governed by emergency decrees, signed by him, and not by legislation adopted in the Reichstag. On 30 January 1933, much against his wish, Hindenburg appointed Hitler to the Reich Chancellorship. In 1934, following Hindenburg’s death, Hitler became Reich President and merged this position with that of Reich Chancellor.