Conquering Berlin by Wilfrid Bade

Berlin: Capital of the Reich. During the turbulent Weimar Republic, Berlin was the political centre of Germany, dominated by leftist ideologies and often described as a stronghold of communist activity. Despite the rise of the brown-shirted SA across other parts of Germany, Berlin’s working-class districts remained largely impenetrable to them.

However, driven by a profound dedication to their cause and the charismatic leadership of Dr. Goebbels, the Berlin branch of the NSDAP began as a small group within a modest cellar and evolved into a formidable force within the SA. Conquering Berlin offers an intimate glimpse into their campaign to reclaim what they called the “Red City.” Through the narrative of the everyman Schulz, it chronicles the SA’s encounters—from tavern fights to massive street protests and the emotional highs and crushing lows that accompanied their efforts to liberate the German people from what they perceived as corrupt law enforcement and Bolshevik conspirators.

First released in 1933 by Wilfrid Bade and later prohibited in the Soviet-controlled regions of Germany, resulting in the author’s imprisonment and death in a Lithuanian camp, this book has now been translated into English for the first time. This historical narrative captures a pivotal moment in German history through the eyes of those who lived it.

Paperback.