Otto Wels

Otto Wels (1873-1939) was a German politician, a member of the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD), and a key figure in the Weimar Republic. He is best remembered for his courageous speech in the Reichstag on March 23, 1933, opposing the Enabling Act, which granted dictatorial powers to Adolf Hitler's Nazi regime.

Born in Berlin, Wels became involved in socialist politics at a young age. He served in the Reichstag from 1912 until his death (with interruptions). After the collapse of the German Empire in 1918, he became chairman of the SPD in 1919, a position he held until his exile in 1933. As chairman, he helped lead the SPD through the turbulent years of the Weimar Republic, navigating the challenges of political instability, economic crises, and the rise of extremist movements.

Despite facing intimidation and threats, Wels delivered a powerful speech against the Enabling Act. While acknowledging the SPD's commitment to national unity and the need for decisive action, he argued that the Act fundamentally violated the constitution and undermined the principles of democracy. He declared, "Freedom and life can be taken from us, but not our honor." Although his opposition was ultimately unsuccessful due to the overwhelming Nazi majority in the Reichstag, his speech is considered a defining moment of resistance against the early Nazi regime and a symbol of the SPD's commitment to democratic values.

Following the passage of the Enabling Act, Wels went into exile, first to Saarbrücken and later to Paris, where he continued to lead the SPD in exile. He died in Paris in 1939. His legacy is one of unwavering commitment to democratic principles and courageous opposition to totalitarianism.