Why do you think General Choltz refused to follow Hitler’s order? General Dietrich von Colditz’s decision to refuse Hitler’s order to destroy Paris in August 1944 can be attributed to several factors:
Humanitarian Concerns:
Choltitz likely recognized the immense cultural and historical significance of Paris. Destroying such a city would not only result in the loss of countless lives but also the annihilation of invaluable cultural heritage. His humanity and sense of responsibility as a military leader may have played a significant role.
Military Pragmatism:
By August 1944, the war situation for Germany was dire. The Allies were advancing, and the German forces were retreating on multiple fronts. Choltitz might have seen the futility of destroying Paris when the war was already lost. He could have judged that such actions would neither halt the Allies’ advance nor benefit Germany strategically.
Personal Legacy and Reputation:
Choltitz may have been motivated by a desire to avoid being remembered as the man who destroyed one of the world’s greatest cities. Understanding the moral and historical weight of his decision, he might have sought to preserve his honor and avoid committing an atrocity that would tarnish his legacy.
Doubts about Hitler’s Judgment:
By that stage of the war, many German officers had begun to doubt Hitler’s strategic judgment and orders. Choltitz might have shared these doubts and believed that following such a destructive command was not in Germany’s best interest.
Communication with Resistance and Allies:
There were instances of communication between German officers and the French Resistance, as well as the Allies. Choltitz might have been influenced by these communications, possibly negotiating the surrender or understanding the futility of further destruction.
In summary, General Choltitz’s refusal to destroy Paris was likely a combination of humanitarian concern, pragmatic military judgment, the desire to protect his personal legacy, skepticism about Hitler’s orders, and potential interactions with the Resistance and Allied forces.
