David Irving frequently references diaries and diary entries in his own writings and correspondence, highlighting their potential as primary historical documents while also expressing concerns about their accessibility, authenticity, and interpretation. This page examines Irving's perspective on diaries as historical sources, based on excerpts from his own diaries.
Diaries offer a unique window into the past, providing firsthand accounts of events and personal perspectives often absent from official records. Irving’s commentary reveals his fascination with diaries, particularly those of key historical figures, and his frustration with the challenges of accessing and verifying their contents. He sees diaries as potentially revolutionary sources, capable of challenging conventional narratives, but also acknowledges the complexities involved in their use and interpretation.
* 2023: Irving discusses a diary entry by Albrecht, detailing Hitler’s August 22, 1939 address, which seemingly adds a previously unknown record to the existing documentation. He notes the record's disappearance from public view since 1959 and questions why other researchers haven't sought it. Albrecht Diary * 2023: Irving expresses further speculation about the Albrecht diary entry, suggesting it may contradict the established narrative of Hitler’s 1939 address. Hitler's Address, 1939 * 2023: Irving mentions acquiring the Lutze diary and notes a change in its accessibility, suggesting a pattern of restricted access to sensitive historical documents. He also references the mysterious disappearance of files from US archives. Lutze Diary * 2021: Irving discusses access to the Ritter family's unpublished diaries and mentions signing copies for distribution. Karl Ritter Diaries * 2023: Irving expresses interest in Mussolini’s papers and unredacted diaries, noting his use of Mussolini's diary in Volume III of Churchill's War. Mussolini Diaries * 2022: Irving references diaries documenting mass killings in Eastern Europe, highlighting the importance of firsthand accounts in understanding historical events. * 2017: Irving notes reports of JFK assassination documents suggesting Hitler's escape and subsequent life until 1963, expressing skepticism but acknowledging the need to examine them. JFK Assassination * 2021: Irving laments his reliance on Twitter for scrutinizing media reports and accessing "missing pieces" of information. Twitter * 2021: Irving mentions the Mountbatten diaries being held at Southampton University and Andrew Lownie's biography. Louis Mountbatten Diaries * 2021: Irving references a video describing the Lipstadt trial, highlighting the importance of archived materials. Lipstadt Trial * 2021: A correspondent expresses admiration for Irving’s work and mentions having copies of "Hitler's War" and "Hess: The Missing Years," noting Irving's 1991 visit to Buenos Aires. Hess: The Missing Years
Irving’s diary entries reveal a complex relationship with historical diaries. He values them as potential sources of truth, particularly when they challenge established narratives, but is acutely aware of the challenges in obtaining and verifying them. The recurring theme of diaries disappearing from public view or being subject to restricted access suggests a deliberate effort to control historical narratives. His skepticism towards reported findings from JFK assassination documents highlights a broader distrust of official accounts.
Primary Sources Historical Revisionism Archival Research David Cole (Substack)
* diary_2023 * diary_2021 * diary_2022_jan_jun * diary_2017_oct_nov * denial_screenplay_2015