Albert Speer: Historical Personalities of the Twentieth Century has been written specifically with the senior modern history student in mind. Its easy-to-read biographical style makes it an excellent resource for students of all abilities. Throughout the text, the historical figure of Albert Speer is considered within the context of inter-war Germany and the rise of Nazism; World War II; the Nuremberg war crimes trials and the post-war era. Students studying 'Germany, 1918-1939' will therefore also find this book a most helpful companion. Twelve chapters cover the span of Speer's life - from his early life and rise to prominence as Hitler's architect, to his major achievements as Armaments Minister, his trial at Nuremberg for war crimes, his years in Spandau prison and finally his career as a celebrated author. A historiographical overview is also provided to give students an opportunity to assess the competing interpretations and debates that exist among historians and biographers of Albert Speer. To help engage the reader, the book contains: - a timeline of major events - original images - glossary of key terms - chapter review questions - HSC-style essay questions Six Source Investigations are included to provide students with the opportunity to work as historians with key primary and secondary documents. The Source Investigations cover the following periods of Speer's life and career: - Background and early life - Reasons for joining the Nazis - Hitler's Architect - Armaments Minister - Speer's war crimes - Speer and the persecution of the Jews