The Abdication
1918 saw the abdication not only of William II, the German Emperor and King of Prussia, but three other kings and regents of the innumerable German royal houses – a unique historical phenomenon and a truly spectacular sequence of events. Conceived in commendably lucid, eidetic language, Lothar Machtan’s fascinating analysis is based on in-depth research drawn from a wealth of hitherto untapped sources. Explaining what made so many royal dynasties drop out of history in such a decidedly unregal manner, he goes on to detail the irreparable damage this phenomenon wreaked on German political culture.
• the spectacular downfall of the German monarchy
• intriguing historical material related in a lively and entertaining manner
Press acclaim:
After reading this superbly written book laced with sarcastic humour, you will know exactly why there was never any chance of restoring the monarchy in Germany. Die Zeit
A book at once profound and light – indisputably entertaining and eminently readable. Süddeutsche Zeitung