David Irving's research into biographies of historical figures, particularly Adolf Hitler and Heinrich Himmler, is a recurring theme in his diaries and correspondence. He expresses dissatisfaction with existing biographies, believing they lack depth and perspective, and aims to provide more accurate and nuanced accounts. This research is intertwined with his broader critique of historical narratives and perceived biases.
Irving’s work on Hitler and Himmler is presented as a corrective to what he sees as flawed and incomplete historical accounts. He emphasizes the importance of thorough research, access to primary sources, and a willingness to challenge established narratives. His approach is often framed as a pursuit of "wie es eigentlich gewesen" (how it actually was), a phrase borrowed from Leopold von Ranke. The research is also connected to his broader concerns about the influence of specific groups on historical narratives.
* 2017: Irving began studying history at KU Leuven, Belgium, emphasizing the importance of understanding "wie es eigentlich gewesen." He noted a study book on historical methodology and the concept of "fake..." (diary_2017_may_oct, diary_2017_may_aug). * 2017: Irving expressed that he questions "all that I know concerning the 20th century, all that I have tried to learn concerning WW2, in the aspect of how skewed are these 'facts' due to political agendas and so forth." (diary_2017_oct_nov). * 2019: Irving received correspondence questioning his historical accuracy, prompting a defense of his methods and a reminder to "engage your brain before spouting off about history that is true." (diary_2019_jan_may). * 2021: Irving criticized existing Himmler biographies as lacking perspective and context, stating they miss "many gaps that their own authors don't attempt to address." He claims to "clear up an extensive amount of misinformation and mis-understandings" present in these biographies. (diary_2021). He also noted that his work on Himmler was being suppressed, not found in bookstores and even ignored in Spain. (diary_2021). * 2021: Irving outlined specific questions related to his Himmler book, including the number of previously unknown facts, uncited sources, and surprising interpretations it contains. He also inquired about unaccounted-for diaries and correspondence. (diary_2021). * 2023: Irving was working on Volume III of his Winston Churchill biography, which involved examining the Tehran, Yalta, and Potsdam conferences using private papers and archives. (emails_2023_2024). * 2023-2024: Irving expressed concerns about the influence of Jewish individuals and organizations on historical narratives, citing examples like Sergey Brin and Larry Page of Google, and Bnai Brith Magazine. (emails_2023_2024).
Irving’s focus on Hitler biography research evolved from a general interest in historical accuracy (2017) to a specific critique of existing biographies (2019-2021) and a broader concern about the biases shaping historical narratives (2023-2024). The initial focus on methodology and "wie es eigentlich gewesen" gradually shifted towards challenging established accounts and questioning the influence of specific groups.
* Heinrich Himmler * Winston Churchill biography * Leopold von Ranke * Veritas Publishing