Adolf Hitler's directives

Adolf Hitler made several directives while leader of the Third Reich in Germany.

Directive of 21 October 1938
On 21 October 1938, Hitler issued a new directive to the Wehrmacht to prepare for the "following eventualities":


 * Securing the borders of the Reich and protection against surprise air attacks
 * Liquidation of the remainder of the Czech state. It must be possible to smash at any time the remainder of the Czech state should it pursue an anti-German policy.
 * The occupation of Memelland.

Fall Weiss directive
On 3 April 1939, the directive for Fall Weiss (Case White) was ready. It was issued on 11 April.

The first section, written by Hitler, began:

''German relations with Poland continue to be based on the principles of avoiding any disturbances. Should Poland, however, change her policy towards Germany, a final settlement might become necessary in spite of the Treaty in force with Poland. The aim then will be to destroy Polish military strength, and create in the East a situation which satisfies the requirements of National Defence. The free state of Danzig will be proclaimed a part of Reich territory by the outbreak of hostilities at the latest. The political leaders consider it their task in this case to isolate Poland if possible, that is to say, to limit the war to Poland only.''

The Wehrmacht had to be ready to carry out Fall Weiss at any time after 1 September 1939.

"Commissar" directive
This notorious directive, dated 6 June 1941, followed directly on the Barbarossa decree. It was called Instructions on the Treatment of Political Commissars and began :

In the struggle against Bolshevism, we must not'' assume that the enemy's conduct will be based on principles of humanity or of international law. In particular, hate-inspired, cruel and inhumane treatment of prisoners can be expected on the part of all grades of political commissars, who are the real leaders of resistance...To show consideration to these elements during this struggle, or to act in accordance with international rules of war, is wrong and endangers both our own security and the rapid pacification of conquered territory...Political commissars have initiated barbaric, Asiatic methods of warfare. Consequently, they will be dealt with immediately and with maximum severity. As a matter of principle, they will be shot at once, whether captured during operations or otherwise showing resistance.''

Nacht und Nebel
See article Nacht und Nebel decree of Hitler of 7 December 1941

Lex Krupp
See article Lex Krupp directive of Hitler 12 November 1943

External sources

 * Adolf Hitler and World War II: Opperational Orders
 * Führer Directive No. 21: Operation Barbarossa