The dictator who destroyed europe. What motivated Adolf Hitler in his thrist for power, his belief in the superiority of the Aryan race, and his conviction that the German people should dominate Europe? What was the source of his anti-Semitism, his persecution of homosexuals and gypsies, his belief that war was an end in itself? In this compact volume, author Michael Kerrigan examines Hitler's life from the beginning, including his formative years growing up in Austria, his attempts to develop an identity as an artist, his military service during World War I, and his rise to power as head of the Nazi Party -- leading eventually to the chancellorship of a German Reich torn apart by war, political strife, and social upheaval.

Childhood --A portrait of the artist ... -- The front line -- Political beginnings -- My struggle, my success -- Seizing power -- Return to war -- A difficult legacy.