20 November 1945: Nuremberg Trials Begin
On November 20, 1945, the Nuremberg Trials began, marking the first time international leaders faced prosecution for war crimes and crimes against humanity. Twenty-four senior Nazi officials stood in the dock.
The tribunal was a joint effort of the United States, Great Britain, France, and the Soviet Union. Defendants included Hermann Goring, Rudolf Hess, and Albert Speer.
The prosecution presented overwhelming evidence of Nazi atrocities, including films from liberated concentration camps. Witnesses described systematic murder of millions.
The trials rejected the defense of superior orders, establishing that individuals bear personal responsibility for their actions even when following commands.
The verdict found nineteen defendants guilty. Twelve were sentenced to death. The Nuremberg Trials established that state sovereignty does not shield leaders from accountability.
