Did Hitler Escape To Argentina In 1945?

“Some people are larger than life. Hitler is larger than death.”

Without a doubt one of the most pervasive, and persistent, conspiracy theories to have come out of the Second World War is that Nazi leader, Adolf Hitler, escaped to Argentina in 1945 – somehow evading capture, to live out the rest of his years in South American exile.

An incredible disappearing act, if true – perhaps the greatest magic trick of the 20th century – to some, the ultimate cold case.

Could there be some legitimacy to the tale? Contrary to the more conventionally held conclusion – agreed upon by the vast majority of historians – that Hitler spent his final days cloistered inside a concrete reinforced bunker, before perishing at his own hand alongside his wife, Eva, as Soviet troops descended on the Nazi capital.

It is not unusual to encounter this theory when the question of the brutal climax of the war in Europe – the ‘Battle for Berlin’ – is discussed. I have happened upon it myself thousands of times, and with frightening regularity also encountered people who are willing to believe that there may be some accuracy to the myth.

No doubt many may truly consider it possible. Some of those who reference it undoubtedly also view it as simply fodder for a cheap laugh. Providing the same kind of mediocre satisfaction as school yard gossip.

Perhaps the ability of the story of Hitler’s escape to penetrate mainstream consciousness lies in its seeming inoffensiveness. Unlike greater, and more threatening, contrivances, the victims of this story are none.

Suggestions of Hitler’s intrepid escape can elucidate a sly chuckle and inside joke glance, while remaining satisfyingly provocative and obtuse.

What we can say then before venturing deep into the detective work is this: If Hitler did abscond with his newly minted wife in tow, his flight did not lead to an extension of the war. It did not lead to further bloodshed or the rise of the 4th Reich. It did not facilitate further genocide and planetary misfortune.