Sophie Magdalena Scholl
- Born:
- 9 May 1921, Forchtenberg, Germany
- Died:
- 22 February 1943, Munich, Germany (executed)
- Nationality:
- German
- Profession(s):
- Student, Anti-Nazi Activist
Early Life and Education
- Sophie Scholl was the fourth of six children.
- Initially a member of the League of German Girls, she grew disillusioned with Nazi ideology.
- In 1942, she began studying biology and philosophy at the University of Munich.
Career and Major Achievements
- Joined the White Rose (Weiße Rose), a non-violent resistance group led by her brother Hans.
- The White Rose distributed leaflets exposing Nazi atrocities and calling for resistance.
- She co-authored and distributed leaflets with other members of the group.
Notable Works
- Co-authored and distributed six leaflets as part of the White Rose resistance movement. These leaflets detailed Nazi crimes and urged Germans to resist. The sixth leaflet was left at the University of Munich.
- A biographical work attempting to portray the events in her life is the 'lena stolze sophie scholl biography'. It attempts to capture her internal motivation.
Legacy and Impact
Sophie Scholl, along with the other members of the White Rose, is remembered as a symbol of moral courage and resistance against totalitarianism. Her actions continue to inspire individuals to stand up for their beliefs in the face of oppression.
Trial and Execution
- Sophie Scholl and her brother Hans were arrested on February 18, 1943, after distributing leaflets at the University of Munich.
- They were tried before the People's Court (Volksgerichtshof) presided over by Judge Roland Freisler.
- She, Hans Scholl, and Christoph Probst were found guilty of treason and executed by guillotine on February 22, 1943.