This topic explores David Irving's engagement with historical revisionism, particularly concerning World War II and the Holocaust, and his views on historiography and historical methodology. It reflects a recurring theme in his diary entries and correspondence, demonstrating a critical examination of established historical narratives and a pursuit of what he considered a more accurate understanding of the past.
Irving’s interest in revisionism stemmed from a desire to understand “wie es eigentlich gewesen” (how it actually was), drawing inspiration from Leopold von Ranke. This pursuit often involved questioning accepted historical accounts and examining primary sources, leading to a critical perspective on mainstream historiography and a willingness to challenge established narratives, even when they were politically sensitive. The diary entries reveal a fascination with uncovering hidden truths and a skepticism towards politically motivated historical interpretations.
* 2017: Irving’s diary entries express a passion for history and a desire to understand "wie es eigentlich gewesen," referencing Leopold von Ranke. A study book on historical methodology sparked interest in the topic. Ranke * 2017: A correspondent expressed questioning of "facts" due to political agendas and skewed narratives concerning World War II. Correspondent_2017 * 2019: The diary reveals admiration for Adolf Hitler's attempts to improve Germany's situation, alongside acknowledgement of problematic actions like the euthanasia program. Diary_1919_Jan_May 2021: Irving notes that his work has been removed from bookstores and questioned why historians quote his work despite considering him a racist. He references a positive review of Goebbels: Mastermind of the Third Reich* by Gordon Craig, cautioning against censorship. Diary_2021_Auschwitz * 2021: The diary entries discuss the normalization of lying and the importance of understanding history to prevent future tragedies. Diary_2021_Normalization 2021: Irving expresses interest in comparing his version of Hitler's War* with the Millenium edition, seeking corrections and expansions. Diary_2021_HitlersWar * 2023: A historian expressed admiration for Irving's willingness to challenge established views and offered to make his archive available for research. Diary_2023_Historian * 2023-2024: An email entry mentions the death of historian Mayer, noting his place among "migr historians" who sought to understand the cataclysm of World War II. Emails_2023_2024_Mayer
Initially focused on a general passion for historical accuracy, the diary entries progressively reveal a more critical and revisionist perspective. The early entries demonstrate a desire to understand historical events, while later entries reflect a willingness to challenge established narratives and a growing skepticism towards mainstream historical interpretations. The focus shifts from simply understanding "what happened" to questioning how and why history is presented.
David Irving Holocaust denial Leopold von Ranke Goebbels: Mastermind of the Third Reich Hitler's War Historians of the Holocaust Gordon Craig Raul Hilberg Peter Gay Fritz Stern