William L. Shirer

William L. Shirer was a renowned history and non-fiction author, as well as a journalist, born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1904. Shirer is best known for his CBS broadcasts from Berlin at the beginning of the second world war, which provided critical insights into the events unfolding in Europe. In addition to his journalism, Shirer authored an impressive list of non-fiction historical novels and memoirs, many of which drew from his own experiences. During his time in Berlin, Shirer and other journalists faced censorship, and he had to smuggle his notes and diaries out of Germany.

Shirer's writing on the second world war is particularly notable for its depth and detail, much of which came from his own experiences. His book "The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich," published in 1960, is a comprehensive examination of the Third Reich, drawing on historical information from German archives and Shirer's own impressions from his time in Berlin. This book, which is still in print today, is a testament to Shirer's dedication to understanding and sharing the complex history of this period.

In addition to his work on the second world war, Shirer also wrote extensively about other historical events and periods. His book "The Collapse of the Third Republic," published in 1969, drew on his experience living and working in France from 1925 to 1933. This work provides a detailed examination of the Battle of France, drawing on secret orders and reports from the French High Command and other prominent figures in government, Parliament, the Army, and diplomacy. Shirer's body of work is a significant contribution to the historical record, providing valuable insights and perspectives on some of the most important events of the 20th century.