The pages of history are often dominated by the towering figures of men, with the spotlight cast on their deeds, ideologies, and legacies.
Yet, in the midst of his fame, there is a lady whose presence in his life has remained mostly unknown – Eva Braun. While much is known about Hitler, Eva Braun’s narrative has remained largely unknown. Here are seven fascinating aspects of Eva Braun’s life that may surprise you:
1. Convent Experience
Eva Anna Paula Braun, born on February 6, 1912, in Simbach, Germany, came from a middle-class family with a father skilled in craftsmanship. Amidst her sisters, Gretl and Ilse, Eva emerged as a typical teenager with a passion for fashion, makeup, and physical activities like gymnastics, skiing, and swimming.
While academic pursuits held limited allure, her life took an unexpected turn in 1928 when she was sent to a Catholic Youth Institute – a convent experience that proved unsuitable. As Eva herself put it, “It is not the life for me.” This rejection of a traditional path led her to an encounter that would change the course of history.
2. Eva Braun was an excellent photographer
Eva started working with a man named Heinrich Hoffman, who took photographs of people. He was very close to Adolf Hitler. This connection led to Eva meeting Hitler for the first time. Eva’s talent for photography shone through, especially when she took pictures that made Hitler appear friendly and kind. Her photos even earned her a good amount of money.
3. Love Blossoms
Eva and Hitler were instantly attracted to each other, and it was pure love for her. Hitler is said to have “devoured her with his eyes” when they first met. And, believe it or not, Hitler, with his thin moustache and screeching voice, was allegedly a lady killer.
Eva and Hitler’s initial meeting turned into spending more and more time together. They went to movies, had fancy dinners, and enjoyed each other’s company. Eva, who was just 17 at the time, found herself falling deeply in love with Hitler, despite the significant age difference.
4. She shot herself
When Eva discovered that Hitler was not being faithful to her, she was heartbroken. In an attempt to grab his attention, she did something drastic – she shot herself in the chest with a gun. Thankfully, she survived this act, and Hitler was deeply sorry. He tried to make it up to her with gifts and flowers.
5. Suicide attempt
In 1935, feeling hurt once again due to Hitler’s rumored infidelity, Eva attempted to harm herself by taking pills. However, her suicide attempt failed, and Hitler was once more deeply apologetic. He not only showed remorse but also bought her a lovely house. They began living together in a beautiful mountain chalet.
6. Standing Strong in Tough Times
Hitler’s fear of betrayal and paranoia became more intense as time went on. He was always anxious and even had his food tested for poison. Eva supported him in these fears and stood by his side through thick and thin. She shared his belief in dying a heroic death rather than falling into the hands of their enemies.
7. A Tragic Ending
As World War II reached its final stages, Eva refused to leave Hitler’s side. They decided to get married, but their honeymoon was anything but joyful. Instead, on April 30, 1945, they made a heart-wrenching decision. They chose to end their lives together, preferring death over capture by the opposing forces. It was a deeply sad and tragic conclusion to their story.
In conclusion, Eva Braun’s life was far from ordinary. Her journey from a regular young girl to becoming intertwined with a significant, albeit notorious, historical figure like Hitler showcases the complexities of life, especially during tumultuous times. Her unwavering love for Hitler and the choices they made together provide a unique perspective on the human experience.
