House of Austrian History Presents: Biographies of National Socialism Figures in Austria

This digital collection, launched in February 2026, presents 106 biographies of National Socialist perpetrators, beneficiaries, and followers with ties to Austria. It details their roles within the NS system and their post-war careers, serving as a crucial resource for historical-political education.

Launched in February 2026, the 'Österreichische Akteur*innen des Nationalsozialismus. Eine Biografiensammlung' is a comprehensive online resource by the House of Austrian History (hdgö). It sheds light on the roles of individuals, both prominent and less known, who were perpetrators, beneficiaries, or followers within the National Socialist system and had connections to Austria. The collection initially comprises 106 biographies, including figures like Adolf Eichmann, Rudolf Hermann Eisenmenger, Fritz Dworschak, Paula Wessely, Helene Hintersteiner, Erna Aflenzer, and Heinrich Gross. By detailing their involvement in NS crimes and their subsequent careers, the digital lexicon aims to foster critical historical engagement and support educational initiatives, offering a nuanced perspective on Austria's past beyond the 'first victim' narrative. The launch coincides with the 40th anniversary of the Waldheim affair, a pivotal moment in Austrian memory politics that brought the nation's complicity in National Socialism to the fore. The hdgö also hosted a discussion event, 'Vor/nach Waldheim. Umbrüche der Erinnerung', featuring eyewitnesses who challenged the prevailing post-war narrative. This initiative underscores the hdgö's commitment to making visible both victims and perpetrators, their networks, and societal responsibility.