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Pollak Arm Hans Von Trotha: A Legacy of Courage, Controversy, and Colonialism

Sean Turner

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Pollak Arm Hans von Trotha was a German general who played a pivotal role in the Herero and Namaqua genocide in German South West Africa. His brutal tactics and disregard for human life earned him the nickname 'The Butcher of Africa'.

Pollak's Arm

by Hans von Trotha

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Language	:	English
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Early Life and Career

Von Trotha was born in Potsdam, Prussia, in 1848. He joined the Prussian army in 1866 and fought in the Franco-Prussian War. In 1894, he was appointed commander of the German Schutztruppe (protection force) in German South West Africa.

The Herero and Namaqua Genocide

In 1904, the Herero people of German South West Africa rebelled against German colonial rule. Von Trotha was dispatched to suppress the rebellion. He pursued a scorched-earth policy, destroying villages and crops and killing any Herero he encountered.

After the Herero had been defeated, von Trotha turned his attention to the Namaqua people. He issued a notorious extermination order, which stated that all Namaqua men, women, and children were to be killed.

As a result of von Trotha's brutal tactics, an estimated 65,000 Herero and 10,000 Namaqua people were killed. The genocide was one of the most horrific atrocities of the colonial era.

Aftermath and Legacy

Von Trotha was recalled to Germany in 1905. He was never held accountable for his crimes. He died in Bonn in 1920.

The Herero and Namaqua genocide remains a highly controversial topic. Von Trotha's legacy is one of courage, controversy, and colonialism. He was a ruthless and efficient military commander, but he also committed one of the most heinous crimes in human history.

Pollak Arm Hans von Trotha was a complex and controversial figure. He was a brave and skilled soldier, but he also committed unspeakable atrocities. His legacy is a reminder of the horrors of colonialism and the importance of holding those responsible for war crimes accountable.

Pollak Arm Hans Von Trotha In German Military Uniform Pollak S Arm Hans Von Trotha