The Arms of Krupp

1587-1968

De: William Manchester

Narrado por: Paul Boehmer

In this narrative of extraordinary richness, depth, and authority, America's preeminent biographer/historian explored the German national character as no other writer has done. The Arms of Krupp brings to life Europe's wealthiest, most powerful family, a 400-year German dynasty that developed the world's most technologically advanced weapons, from cannons to submarines to antiaircraft guns; provided arms to generations of German leaders, including the Kaiser and Hitler; operated private concentration camps during the Nazi era; survived conviction at Nuremberg; and wielded enormous influence on the course of world events. William Manchester's galvanizing account of the rise and fall of the Krupp dynasty is history as it should be written - alive with all its terrifying power.

©1968 William Manchester (P)2017 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Exceptional in Every Regard!

The narrator, Paul Boehmer, was superb. His intonation, and specifically, his excellent German literacy made the entire history of The Arms of Krupp come alive. It was hard to put this 972 page book down - in large part because of Mr. Boehmer’s narration. I read the book and followed the narrative with very satisfactory result. I found myself frequently replaying entire sections of his narrative, each time finding deeper meaning and a better understanding of this fascinating world, business and political history. There are volumes of historical value in each chapter. This book and the skilled narration illuminated multiple aspects of World War II history I had been overlooking for more than 50 years of reading, and research. I am most grateful to Audible, William Manchester and especially, Mr. Boehmer for a tremendous experience and terrific learning opportunity. Upon reflection, I was most disappointed to see such a family history come to an end because of its prodigy’s lack of responsibility and interest. History can highlight many disappointing aspects of life and human frailties. Nonetheless, all in all an exceptional education and experience. Well done - all!

Manchester!

Manchester is the best and the story of Germany thru the Krupp lens is fascinating

Fantastic story and narration

This book follows the Krupp family in fantastic detail and precision. The narration is flawless and the fact that german words and phrases are sprinkled in to the text gives the book extra spice. Overall fantastic reading and I would recommend it to anyone who is interested in German history.

The excellent narration and superbly interesting writing kept me engaged throughout the entire book

I loved this book. It was exceptionally accurate and it didn’t shy away from the duplicitous nature of the Krupp family. Anyone who believes this book’s bias is a bad thing is a fool—the main Krupps beginning with Alfred were horrible people. Alfred engaged in illegal and almost unbelievable international tampering to sell more guns, held views on labor that, even in his own time, were considered villainously excessive, and was a merchant of death to boot. His son Friedrich was a pedophile, and possessed a cruel and craven nature that led to him institutionalizing his perfectly sane wife to prevent her from revealing his deviancy. All the Krupps following Friedrich were fanatical Nazis. The only problem I have with this book, is it’s forgiving tone towards Bertha, who, owned the concern, knew of the slave labor and atrocities it was being used for, and chose to turn a blind eye.

Classic

No other book will ever tell this story so well. That Manchester dug in and stood his moral ground at a time when Nazi apologism was politically expedient and culturally ubiquitous is part of what makes this book definitive and timeless.

The Arms of Krupp

A compelling story well told. It takes many hours to listen to the Audiobook version, but it is time well spent.

Long but interesting

Fascinating overview of a powerful German family. Long and detailed but very interesting, particularly if you like WWI and WWII stories.

Excellent Narration!

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

I was surprised by the very intriguing and engaging subject material as one would expect such a volume would belabor the average listener, yet there never seems a moment when we are bombarded by technical or metric information. Mr. Manchester could make the greatest reading from absolutely anything!

Who was your favorite character and why?

Most all of the characters are indispensable yet Alfred the Great was that one pivoteable figure all others were centered around.

What about Paul Boehmer’s performance did you like?

I appreciated his slight inflections of sarcasm and disdain. Paul obviously understood Manchester very well. The best narrations are ones that don't distract and we were served very well, thank you PB!

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

They put the 'fun' in dysfunctional! Yes, go the comic route. There's just too much of it there...

Any additional comments?

It would seem the problems regarding chapter 9 were addressed.

Interesting story and love this author but…

Why on earth does he say the german and the english? I understand if it were names or every here and there but it is extremely annoying to have to hear the german before the english. I bought an english book. Speak English. No wonder its so long. If i was so interested in the story of krupp id have returned it after a day.

What a terrible narrator!

What did you love best about The Arms of Krupp?

Unusual history.

What did you like best about this story?

The international aspect of Krup contracts and the details about the family.

How did the narrator detract from the book?

His German pronunciation seems affected and clumsy. His pronunciation of the word Krup* was completely distracting. Every time he said Kkkkkruuup, unlike any person I have EVER heard, in Germany or America, I lost my place. It was very distracting and actually interfered and interrupted my listening. English or American pronunciations of foreign titles, names, or places always annoy me - especially when the correction is simple - but this guy is in a class all his own. He almost manages to roll the K; I can't believe the editors or people helping him record this didn't say something. I can only assume they don't speak German and never hear it spoken.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

No.

Any additional comments?

Comprehensive.