Definition: (April 26, 1894 - August 17, 1987) - Deputy to the Führer, Reich Minister Without Portfolio, and successor-designate after Hermann Göring. Important role using geopolitics to gain land. Involved in the Anschluss of Austria and the administration of the Sudentenland. Worshipped and devoted to Hitler. In a plea for Hitler's favor, Hess flew to Scotland on May 10, 1940 (without the Führer's approval) in an effort to make a peace agreement with Britain. Britain and Germany denounced him as crazy. Sentenced to life imprisonment. Sole prisoner at Spandau after 1966. In 1987, found in his cell, hanged with an electric cord at age 93.
Rudolf Hess
By Jennifer Rosenberg, About.com Guide
Portrait of Reichsminister Rudolf Hess.
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