Historische & politische Biographien

Das Leben von Maria aus Kattowitz beschreibt die Geschichte vom Deutschen Kaiserreich bis zur Bundesrepublik Deutschland. Die Zeit beginnt mit Hans Heinrich Fürst von Pless XV., reichstem Fürst im deutschen Kaiserreich, Herr über die Kohlereviere in Ober-und Niederschlesien. Seine Frau, Fürstin Daisy von Pless, Engländerin, wird für das Mädchen Maria Vorbild an Eleganz und Auftreten.Maria heiratet Kurt, Major der Reserve und Berginspektor beim Fürsten in Kattowitz und Waldenburg. Kurt stirbt in Folge des Ersten Weltkriegs. Otto, Bergwerksdirektor, wird zweiter Ehemann. Brigitte und Ursula aus erster Ehe und Helga aus zweiter Ehe wachsen in der Weimarer Republik und im Nationalsozialismus auf. Der fürstentreue Otto wird 1933 Mitglied der NSDAP und ist als Generalbergwerksdirektor zuständig für die Förderung von Steinkohle. Der Fürst, der die oberschlesischen Bergwerke nach einer Volksabstimmung 1922 an Polen verliert, hat seine niederschlesischen Gruben in die Waldenburger Bergwerks-AG überführt. Sie wird 1933 verstaatlicht.Maria und Otto leben gut im Nationalsozialismus bis zum Zweiten Weltkrieg. Mit der Flucht Anfang 1945 lässt Maria ihr gutbürgerliches Leben hinter sich. Sie kommt in Thale/Harz, amerikanische Besatzungszone, beim Großvater an und flüchtet mit Helga vor den Russen zu Tochter Brigitte nach Lichtenfels/Oberfranken in die amerikanische Zone. Otto trifft vier Wochen später in Thale ein, wird denunziert und in das russische Speziallager Nr. 1 Mühlberg/Sachsen gebracht, wo er Anfang 1947 stirbt. Maria erfährt von Ottos Tod nach Auflassung des Lagers im August 1948.Marias Plan, nach Chile auszuwandern, scheitert wie der Versuch, Helga in der Modebranche von Konstanz zu etablieren. Maria zieht zu Brigitte nach Bonn, weiter nach Köln in die Nähe von Helga. Maria überlebt Otto um 32 Jahre.Marias Lebensgeschichte wird von der Enkelin Kati erzählt, die eigene Überlegungen in den Erzählstoff webt.

Sniper Jackson, first published in 1919, is a first-hand account of trench fighting in Belgium and France in World War One. The book, although somewhat fictionalized, details the activities of a group of British soldiers facing the Germans across a deadly No Man's Land. One soldier, "Sniper Jackson", is a keen marksman and his role and importance in the skirmishes are well-described, a rarely described aspect of most books on World War One. The book also details the close-knit camaraderie among the soldiers, a factor which helped them survive the miserable conditions of the trenches, and the dangers they faced from artillery attacks and enemy advances.

Air Base, first published in 1941 by aviator Boone Guyton, is a fascinating look at the U.S. Navy's flying fleet shortly before Pearl Harbor and America's entry into the Second World War. In a style ranging from amusing to tragic and harrowing, Guyton describes his experiences as a Navy flyer. Following a year of flight-training at Pensacola, Guyton is based in San Diego with a carrier squadron aboard the Lexington and Saratoga. He describes the training cruises of the ship, the patrol flights, dive bombers, and war games, providing insight into the prewar Navy air force. Included are 8 pages of photographs. Following his naval service, Boone Guyton (1913-1996) worked as a test pilot in France until 1940. He returned to the U.S. and continued his work as a test pilot for Vought with the F4 Corsair. Following the war, Guyton settled in Connecticut and continued working as an executive for several aviation companies.

This is the biography of Australia's first naval architect, Walter Reeks (1861 - 1925). A man who produced innovative, sometimes unorthodox designs across a broad range of vessels, from commercial craft to recreational yachts. Best known as the pioneer of the Sydney fleet of ferries, Reeks rose to prominence immediately after his arrival in Sydney from Liverpool in 1885. He went on to design more than 300 vessels up until his death in 1925 at the age of 64. Clients included the well-heeled to those with less resources. Craft were built throughout Australia and New Zealand, many becoming stalwarts of local, regional, state and national trading routes and industries. Others went on to win coveted yachting titles, some with Reeks at the helm. Despite these professional successes and his wide-reaching acclaim, this is also the story of sorrow and tragedy, the death at a young age of his first wife Mary in 1895, and the murder of his son Kent in 1914 casting large, grieving shadows on Reeks' family life. Yet, this is the story of a man who not only achieved so much professionally but was a dedicated supporter and protagonist of maritime pursuits throughout Australia, as well as to engineering, education and volunteering more generally. Reeks was a member of the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron for over 40 years, being made a life member in 1900, serving as vice-commodore between 1906 and 1910, and notably being its official measurer for an unsurpassed stint of 39 years. During this period, Reeks also designed many of Sydney's leading yachts and investigated the potential for an Australian challenge to the America's Cup, a dream he was still chasing some four decades later. A life of serving, adventure, cutting-edge innovation, risk-taking and saying 'Yes!' are highlights of Reeks' journey. While his achievements, as we reflect back on his career, are immense, their collective weight and worthiness would likely not have been realised by Reeks himself. They were just the next project, the next step forward, the next outcome, the next compromise between the practical and the ideal, between his design parameters and his client's needs. It was definitely a life well lived and one worth telling.

Hermann Heller (1881-1933) war ein bedeutender Vordenker der sozialen Demokratie und Verteidiger der Weimarer Republik. Die Beiträge im vorliegenden Band thematisieren sowohl den Verfassungsdenker Heller wie auch den Analytiker des aufkommenden Faschismus in Europa vor Beginn der NS-Herrschaft. Die gesamte Breite der Arbeit von Heller als politischem Wissenschaftler wird dabei auch mit Blick auf aktuelle Herausforderungen reflektiert. Für Hermann Heller war klar, dass Demokratie ohne gesellschaftlichen Zusammenhalt auf Dauer nicht funktionieren kann. Mit dem »sozialen Rechtsstaat« gab er nicht nur eine Antwort auf die politischen Auseinandersetzungen um die Weimarer Republik, sondern entwickelte einen entscheidenden Impuls für Verfassungsdebatten bis in die aktuelle Zeit. Fragen der sozialen Fundierung von Demokratie stellen sich heute im deutschen wie internationalen Kontext mit ungebrochener Dringlichkeit. Hier gilt es Heller »weiterzudenken«.

The Crucible: An Autobiography by "Colonel Yay", first published in 1950, is the dramatic firsthand memoir of Filipina-American Yay Panlilio's (1913-1978) time in the Philippines with the resistance group known as "Marking's Guerrillas." The book includes descriptions of encounters with the Japanese army, espionage, sabotage, constant moving to avoid capture, torture and execution, communication with Allied forces, the struggle to obtain adequate food and medical supplies, and also the romance between Yay Panlilio and former boxer Marcos Augustin, the determined leader of the guerrilla force (and Yay's future husband). In 1945, Ms. Panlilio returned to the U.S. With her children. Overall, an insightful and moving account of the day-to-day struggles of a brave band of Filipino fighters against a brutal, uncompromising opponent.

"Becoming A Better You: Know Plato and How to Use His Wisdom" by Elliot Hawthorne is a transformative journey into the philosophy of Plato, tailored for the modern reader. It presents 80 of Plato's most impactful quotes, offering a practical, easy-to-read format that demonstrates their relevance in today's world. This book is essential for anyone seeking self-improvement and a deeper understanding of life, providing invaluable insights into self-mastery, character development, and personal responsibility. Hawthorne's interpretation of Plato's teachings is not just a study of ancient philosophy, but a guide to living a purposeful, informed life in our fast-paced world.

All his life, Greg McPartlin wanted to be a Marine corpsman, a medic skilled at saving lives. Three months of "bagging-and-tagging" bodies during Vietnam's Tet Offensive took the luster off being a Marine-but not off McPartlin's desire to serve his country.After assisting in the sea-recovery of Apollo 11-the first ship to bring men to the moon-the twenty-year-old McPartlin was redeployed to Vietnam as an elite Navy SEAL. Barred as a medic by the Geneva Convention from the make-or-break training considered vital to service as a Navy SEAL, McPartlin had to show he had what it took.In a war where soldiers partied with their buddies in Saigon one day and crawled through an enemy-infested jungle hell the next, McPartlin proved that he was not only an outstanding medic but a real Navy SEAL-the toughest of the tough. Combat Corpsman is McPartlin's account of his year in what had been a Viet Cong stronghold until the SEALs took control. It's the first inside story of a Navy SEAL medic, a man who wanted to heal-not to kill-but did both to save lives.

Life is about struggles. What if one doesn't face any? Do you think you can have a life without challenges? Not really. Many people in the world go through things that affect them in several ways and some of these struggles are an indirect cause of the choices they made in life. Making decisions is hard and when it comes to making the wrong choices, it never bodes out well. However, one can always learn from their mistakes. That's what my life is all about. From a very young age, I made choices of my life. One would say they were the wrong choices, but I believe it brought me to where I am today. From getting into trouble at home with the parents and grandmother, to getting into trouble out in the streets, I learned much more about life than most people do at my age. I walked the darkest streets of my neighborhoods, and suffered through the darkest days of my life locked up in prison. And when I finally went out, I breathed a sense of freedom that I had never felt before. This book is about all those real-life struggles that I faced in my life, and while it may not be perfect, I believe there is a lot to learn. Here, I am going to describe all my struggles and how it led me to success.

Die autobiographische Reihe "Lebenswerke in der Chemie" gibt Einblicke in das Leben und Denken herausragender Forscher im Spiegel der Zeit. Welche Rolle spielt in der chemischen Spitzenforschung die ununterbrochene Folge von Hypothese, Experiment und Interpretation, welche Rolle spielen die Impulse von Mentoren, Mitarbeitern und Studenten oder auch die von Konkurrenten? Erfolgreiche Wissenschaftler beschreiben authentisch und persönlich, wie Neues in den Naturwissenschaften entsteht.Herausgegeben vom Beirat der Fachgruppe Geschichte der Chemie in der Gesellschaft Deutscher Chemiker (GDCh). l-i-c.org

"Jane Eyre: An Autobiography" by Charlotte BrontëEmbark on a timeless journey through the hauntingly beautiful narrative of "Jane Eyre: An Autobiography" by Charlotte Brontë. This classic novel, a masterful blend of romance, mystery, and social commentary, introduces us to the indomitable spirit of Jane Eyre-a resilient orphan who rises from the shadows to forge her own destiny.In the gloomy halls of Lowood School, where young Jane endures hardship and cruelty, her unyielding spirit catches the eye of Mr. Rochester, the enigmatic and brooding master of Thornfield Hall. A complex and passionate relationship develops between them, fraught with secrets and the echoes of a mysterious past. As Jane confronts the challenges of love, morality, and self-discovery, readers are drawn into a world of Gothic intrigue and emotional depth.Brontë's exploration of societal norms and the struggle for independence is as relevant today as it was when "Jane Eyre" was first published in 1847. The novel is a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit and a celebration of the triumph of love over adversity. Through Brontë's evocative prose, readers are transported to the windswept moors of Yorkshire, where the landscape mirrors the emotional turbulence of Jane's own heart."Jane Eyre: An Autobiography" is a literary masterpiece that continues to captivate readers with its timeless themes, unforgettable characters, and the enduring appeal of a woman's quest for love and identity in a world that seeks to confine her. Immerse yourself in this enduring classic and experience the transformative journey of a singular heroine whose story resonates across the ages.

The O.S.S. and I, first published in 1957, is the fast-paced, detailed account of William Morgan's service as a member of the O.S.S. (Office of Strategic Services, the predecessor of the modern-day CIA) during the Second World War. Morgan, a psychologist, served first as an instructor and evaluator of O.S.S. candidates, testing their mental and physical suitability for hazardous, dangerous duty as spies and saboteurs behind enemy lines. Morgan then went on a mission himself, parachuting into occupied France and working with French resistance guerrillas (the Maquis) to undermine German military efforts prior to the Allied invasion in June 1944. Of special interest are the detailed descriptions of the training exercises, designed to test the applicant's creative-thinking and problem-solving skills. Included are eight pages of photographs.

Franken wäre ohne die Schönborn-Fürstbischöfe von Bamberg und Würzburg um einiges ärmer: Sie hinterließen einen barocken Schatz an Residenzen, Schlössern, Kirchen. Die Würzburger Residenz zählt zum UNESCO-Welterbe. Doch die Schönborns waren nicht nur prunkliebende Bauherren, sondern auch politische Visionäre: Als Inhaber bedeutender geistlicher Ämter bestimmten sie wesentlich die Reichspolitik mit und versuchten, das Reich aus den europäischen Konflikten des 18. Jahrhunderts herauszuhalten. Friedrich Karl von Schönborn, dessen Geburtstag sich 2024 zum 350. Mal jährt, wirkte lange am Wiener Kaiserhof, bevor er sein Amt als Fürstbischof von Bamberg und Würzburg antrat

Title: Abraham Lincoln: The Practical Mystic by Francis GriersonDive into the profound wisdom and spiritual insights of one of America's greatest leaders with "Abraham Lincoln: The Practical Mystic" by Francis Grierson. In this enlightening exploration, Grierson unveils the hidden dimensions of Lincoln's character, revealing a side of the revered president that history often overlooks.Grierson, a mystic and visionary himself, delves into Lincoln's life, unraveling the layers of his personality to expose a man deeply connected to the mystical and spiritual realms. Beyond the iconic image of the tall, stoic figure, Grierson presents Lincoln as a practical mystic, someone who seamlessly integrated his intuitive insights with the pragmatic demands of leadership.From the crucible of the Civil War to the pivotal moments of his presidency, Grierson illustrates how Lincoln's mystical perspective guided his decisions, offering a fresh and compelling interpretation of the man behind the myth. Drawing on historical records, personal anecdotes, and Lincoln's own writings, Grierson paints a portrait of a leader whose strength and resilience were derived not only from political acumen but also from a profound connection to the mystical forces that shape our world.As you journey through the pages of "Abraham Lincoln: The Practical Mystic," you'll gain a deeper understanding of Lincoln's spiritual journey and the impact it had on the course of American history. Grierson skillfully combines historical narrative with spiritual exploration, making this book a captivating read for history enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, and anyone intrigued by the intersection of mysticism and leadership.Discover the untold story of Abraham Lincoln - a practical mystic whose enduring legacy transcends the pages of history. Grierson's masterful narrative invites you to see Lincoln in a new light, unlocking the mysteries of a leader whose vision extended far beyond the challenges of his time.

"Seven Pillars of Wisdom: A Triumph" is a memoir written by T. E. Lawrence, also known as Lawrence of Arabia. The book recounts Lawrence's experiences during the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire during World War I. Lawrence played a key role in organizing and leading Arab forces against the Ottoman Turks in the Arabian Peninsula.The title "Seven Pillars of Wisdom" refers to the seven great cities of the Arab world mentioned in the Book of Proverbs in the Bible. The book is not only a historical account of the events but also a literary work, known for its vivid and poetic prose. Lawrence wrote much of the book while recovering from injuries sustained during the war.The memoir covers Lawrence's personal reflections, the challenges faced during the Arab Revolt, and his interactions with various Arab leaders. Lawrence explores the complexities of Arab politics, tribal dynamics, and the difficulties of achieving a unified Arab front against the Ottoman Empire. The narrative also delves into Lawrence's internal struggles with his identity, loyalty, and the moral implications of war."Seven Pillars of Wisdom" was initially published privately in 1926 and later in a more widely distributed edition in 1935. Lawrence's work has had a significant impact on the understanding of the Arab Revolt and the geopolitics of the Middle East during and after World War I. The book remains a classic in the genre of military memoirs and has been praised for its literary qualities and its contribution to the understanding of the Arab world.

This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the original. Due to its age, it may contain imperfections such as marks, notations, marginalia and flawed pages. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions that are true to the original work.

British troops had chased George Washington's Continental Army out of New York in 1776 and sent them fleeing from Philadelphia the following year. The remnants of Washington's rebel troops fled to a barren mountain top in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, where the troops-out of ammunition by then--faced freezing temperatures, starvation, and certain defeat. As desertions threatened to end the American Revolution, a fat man suddenly appeared in Washington's tent and, as if by magic-or "magick," as Washington spelled it-produced the money to pay the troops and buy them enough food, clothing, and arms to defeat the British and secure United States independence His name was Robert Morris; Washington called him his "magick money man."

The United States Secret Service, first published in 1960, is a fascinating look at the activities of this branch of the Treasury Department. From the establishment of the Service through the 1950s, the book examines the Service's history: from assassination attempts and protecting the President, to crime-fighting responsibilities such as finding counterfeit currency, investigating fraud and government corruption. Several chapters describe efforts by the Nazis and the Soviet Union to produce high-quality counterfeit currency in an effort to destabilize the U.S. economy. Included are an index and 12 pages of illustrations. Authors Walter Bowen and Harry Neal were long-time members of the Service.

Lincoln and the Tools of War, first published in 1956, is the masterful account by Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Robert V. Bruce (1923-2008) of Abraham Lincoln's efforts to equip the Union Army during the Civil War. Fascinated by mechanical gadgetry and technology, Lincoln introduced breechloaders and machine guns into warfare and promoted the use of incendiary weapons, ironclad warships, breech-loading cannons, and aerial reconnaissance. Author Bruce chronicles the President's struggle against a bureaucracy reluctant and slow to change, and his dealings with a stream of inventors, ordinance experts, government officials, military officers, and lobbyists to start a new era of weapons and warfare. Illustrated with prints from the period.