Today in History: April 11; Adolf Eichmann’s trial begins

Today in History: April 11.

The trial of Adolf Eichmann, a high-ranking Nazi German official, who had an essential role in executing the “Final Solution”, begins.

Eichmann was a member of the infamous “SS”, and was responsible for the mass deportation of Jews, across German-occupied Europe.

His prior fugitive status, eluding capture for nearly 15 years,

added to the interest of the trial.

He escaped to Argentina, under the assumed name Ricardo Klement, reunited his family, while working at a Mercedes-Benz factory.

With considerable help from Fritz Bauer, Eichmann was secretly capture by Mossad, and taken to Israel, on May 20, 1960.

His trial was held before a special tribunal of the Jerusalem District Court.

Although admitting his role in the “Final Solution”, he staunchly resisted any guilt for his actions.

On June 1, 1962, Eichmann was executed by hanging.