Charges Against Vienna Antiquarian for Nazi Re-Engagement

The "Falter" reports that the Viennese antiquarian Rainer Schaden acquired books from the estate of the historian Brigitte Hamann, who passed away in 2016. Hamann, known for "Hitler's Vienna," had numerous books from the Nazi era in her collection. After her death, Schaden offered these books online but carefully checked the buyers to prevent them from falling into the wrong hands. Schaden emphasized his anti-fascist stance.

Viennese Antiquarian Accused of Nazi Re-Engagement

Schaden's clientele included well-known scientists and publicists, such as contemporary historian Oliver Rathkolb. The Vienna Public Prosecutor's Office now accuses Schaden of having engaged in National Socialist activities at least from October 10, 2024, to January 22, 2025, by publicly offering books glorifying National Socialism for sale in his webshop under the category "Third Reich" in a manner perceivable by more than 30 people. The indictment emphasizes that Schaden not only offered NS propaganda bound in books but committed the act "in a way that made it accessible to many people." The works covered by the indictment bear titles such as "The End of Austria," "How the Ostmark Experienced Its Liberation," or "German Science and the Jewish Question."

(APA/Red)

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