The Problem of Ernst Heinkel: Nationalism and State Power in Early Twentieth Century German Aviation

The thesis examines the changing power structure between Ernst Heinkel’s private aviation business and the German government during the first half of the twentieth century. Utilizing Heinkel’s autobiography, newspaper articles published during his lifetime, and court documents provide significant evidence with which to judge the question of Heinkel and German nationalism. The methodological focus provided by landmark works on German culture, economics, and intellectual history aid in the assessment of Heinkel as an historical actor from multiple perspectives. Heinkel’s life story as an innovative aviation pioneer and successful business man demonstrates the dynamic nature of nationalism, the unmistakable influence of economic factors on decision making, and the complex ramifications of transformative technologies on an unstable and rapidly modernizing German society.