Research project reveals dark secrets from entrepreneur Günter Leifheit
Research project reveals dark secrets from entrepreneur Günter Leifheit
On January 20, 2025, a comprehensive research project on the history of Günter Leifheit was officially started. This is headed by Lonleif Gapa gGmbH and the Leifheit Foundation in cooperation with the market town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the city of Nassau and Leifheit AG. Professor Dr. Joachim Scholtyseck from the University of Bonn was hired as the main historian for the investigation. Dr. Scholtyseck is a recognized expert for the history of the 19th and 20th centuries and specializes in the economic and corporate history. The project is expected to take two years.
The central goal of this research is the detailed review of the biography of Günter and Ingeborg Leifheit. The focus is particularly on the embedding of Leifheit's life history in the political and social circumstances of the Weimar Republic and the "Third Reich". In addition, a comprehensive representation of Leifheit role in World War II and his radiation is sought for Waffen-SS. The results of research should be published in the long term.
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The Nazi knitting from Günter Leifheit
Günter Leifheit, who is known as an entrepreneur and sponsor in Nassau (Rhein-Lahn-Kreis), was the founder of a company that has become internationally known for its laundry stands and ironing boards. Despite his great reputation in the city, in which a private high school is also named after him, recent studies showed significant dark side of his biography.
A study by historian Stefan Holler revealed deep-reaching entangling entanglements in the Nazi ideology. Already at the age of 11 he joined the "German Young people" in 1932 and rose in the following eight years until the full -time "young ban leader". In 1938 he joined the NSDAP and volunteered in 1940 to the Waffen-SS. Holler's research suggests that Leifheit never confessed to his National Socialist past and that both his family and the Leifheit Foundation and the city of Nassau conceal these aspects for a long time.
With the new research project, Günter Leifheit's Nazi past is now processed transparently, which could also result in a critical reinterpretation of its role in German history.
former successes and innovations
The Leifheit company, founded in 1959, has established itself over the years as an important manufacturer in the field of household goods. With over 400 patent applications and a diversified product range, including innovative cleaners and care products, Leifheit has significantly influenced the budget industry. In particular, the introduction of the first mop and the development of the Clean Twist System, which removes up to 99.99% of the viruses, have made the company a pioneer in the industry.
The upcoming research project is intended to help draw a complete picture of Günter Leifheit and his role in both an entrepreneur and as an individual in a moving and controversial era of German history. It remains to be seen which new knowledge can be worked out and to what extent they will influence the perception of leisure in today's society.
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