The book by Professor Guido Knopp is dedicated to the German Wehrmacht - the armed forces of Nazi Germany in 1935-1945, which included the ground forces, navy and air force (Luftwaffe). More than 18 million people served in the Wehrmacht, believing in the superiority of their blood. Their supreme commander was Hitler himself, and they were considered the most powerful weapon in his hands. This army captured half of Europe, but ultimately suffered a total defeat. More than five million Wehrmacht soldiers died. The author in his book sums up the activities of this organization, explores its structure, functions and composition - from the general to the ordinary soldier. The book includes hitherto unknown and previously unpublished documents, historical facts, photographs from private archives.