“Resistance fighter” it echoes in the air around this Von Wartenburg Plaque. This plaque commemorates Peter Graf Yorck von Wartenburg. He lived here and his story is etched in the city’s very soul.
Let’s delve into the life of this remarkable man. The Von Wartenburg Plaque marks a place of profound significance. Peter Graf Yorck von Wartenburg studied law and politics. He gained his doctorate in 1927. Later he passed the civil service examination for lawyers in Berlin in 1930. In that same year, he married Marion Winter. She was a doctor of law.
Von Wartenburg’s early career involved legal work. He consulted for the Osthilfe government program. This program aimed at reducing agricultural debt in East Prussia. From 1936 to 1941, Von Wartenburg served on the Reich Price Commission in Berlin. He was the department head. His responsibility was fundamental issues.
His refusal to join the NSDAP marked a turning point. Consequently, he was no longer promoted from 1938. This act of defiance ignited his involvement in the resistance. He worked closely with friends like Fritz-Dietlof Graf von der Schulenburg. Ulrich-Wilhelm Graf von Schwerin von Schwanenfeld was also a close associate.
The pogroms of November 9, 1938, deeply affected Von Wartenburg. In response, he established a discussion group. They focused on the principles of a new Reich constitution. This shows his commitment to a better future.
Called up as a reserve officer, he transferred to an administrative post in 1942. This role assigned him to the Armed Forces High Command in Berlin. In January 1940, Von Wartenburg began working with Helmuth James Graf von Moltke. Together, they initiated the Kreisau Circle discussions. These discussions often took place at Von Wartenburg’s home.
Von Wartenburg played a key role in the Kreisau Circle. He supported a coup attempt. This attempt would launch with an assassination. This differed from Moltke’s approach. When Claus Schenk Graf von Stauffenberg accelerated coup preparations in September 1943, they worked closely.
Designated as an undersecretary of state for a future Reich Chancellor, Von Wartenburg stood firm. He remained in the innermost circle of the conspirators. After the failed coup attempt, Von Wartenburg was arrested. The arrest happened in the Bendler Block in Berlin. The date was the late evening of July 20, 1944.
The People’s Court sentenced him to death on August 8, 1944. That same day, he was murdered in Berlin-Plötzensee. The Von Wartenburg Plaque serves as a powerful reminder. It reminds us of his courage. It stands as a testament to his sacrifice in the face of tyranny. His legacy continues to inspire those who strive for justice and freedom. Peter Graf Yorck von Wartenburg will never be forgotten. His name is forever etched in the annals of resistance.