The Rise and Fall of Léon Degrelle
Léon Degrelle: The Charismatic Leader
Léon Degrelle, born in **1906** in **Bouillon, Belgium**, was a political figure who became notorious as a Nazi collaborator during **World War II**. He founded the **Rex Movement**, a far-right, fascist political party in Belgium that gained a following with its blend of nationalism and anti-communist sentiments. Degrelle’s ambitious and charismatic speeches attracted many, but as the war progressed, his allegiance to the Nazis made him a controversial figure amid the broader struggles in Europe.
The Collaboration with Nazi Germany
During the German occupation of Belgium, **Degrelle** enthusiastically endorsed the Nazi regime and encouraged collaboration among Belgians. His influence peaked as he led volunteers from Belgium to fight on the Eastern Front in the **Waffen-SS**, where he was promoted to the rank of **SS-Sturmbannführer**. This collaboration not only marked him as a traitor in the eyes of many Belgians but also positioned him as a symbol of **Vichy** collaboration.
The Aftermath: Sentencing and Exile
Degrelle’s Death Sentence
Following the liberation of Belgium in **1944**, Léon Degrelle was sentenced to death for his actions during the occupation. The court ruled that his collaboration with the Nazis and his role in recruiting Belgium’s youth into the **SS** warranted extreme punishment. This sentence reflected a wider desire for justice and accountability for those who sided with the Nazis.
The Escape and Life in Exile
Despite the death sentence, **Degrelle** managed to escape to **Germany** after the war, avoiding immediate punishment. He lived in exile for many years, continuing to espouse his far-right ideologies, even attempting to justify his actions during the war. His efforts to regain political influence would see him travel between countries, yet his reputation remained tainted by his past collaboration.
Fun Fact
Degrelle’s Unusual Post-War Life
After fleeing to **Spain**, **Degrelle** lived an extraordinarily contentious life, believing he was a hero defending European values against communism. He published several works attempting to reshape his version of history, insisting on his perceived honesty and intentions during wartime.
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on Léon Degrelle
For those interested in exploring more about **Léon Degrelle**, consider reading “The Man Who Was the Nazis: Léon Degrelle” and “Fascism in Belgium: The Story of Léon Degrelle's Rex” for deeper insights into his life and political ideology.
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