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Am sorry Quote by Ernst Kaltenbrunner

“I have done my duty by the laws of my people and I am sorry my people were led this time by men who were not soldiers and that crimes were committed of which I had no knowledge.” quote by Ernst Kaltenbrunner
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“I have done my duty by the laws of my people and I am sorry my people were led this time by men who were not soldiers and that crimes were committed of which I had no knowledge.”

Ernst Kaltenbrunner

About This Quote

Source Testimony: Nuremberg Trials, 1946

He claims ignorance of crimes while acknowledging moral responsibility for his people's actions.

In simple terms: He says he was unaware of crimes.

Key Takeaway

Accept moral responsibility despite limited knowledge.

Themes

ethics responsibility history

Mood

somber serious

Type

historical ethical

When to use this quote

  • legal defense
  • historical analysis
  • education
  • memorials

Key Concepts

War crimes collective guilt

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can ignorance excuse complicity?
  • How should societies address collective guilt?
A Different Perspective

Denial of knowledge may be implausible.

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