Carl Gröpler: Germany's Executioner Who Beheaded the Vampire of Düsseldorf

Carl Gröpler was one of the last official executioners in German history and a key figure in the system of capital punishment that operated during both the Weimar Republic and Nazi Germany. Over a career spanning decades, he carried out at least 144 executions using both the traditional executioner's axe and the guillotine.Born in 1868 in Magdeburg, Gröpler followed an unusual path before entering the profession. After working as a musician, postal employee, butcher, and businessman, he became assistant to the Prussian state executioner and eventually assumed responsibility for carrying out death sentences throughout northern Germany.Unlike many people associated with executions, Gröpler viewed his work as a solemn legal duty. A deeply religious man, he believed capital punishment reflected both divine and state authority. He became known for strict ceremonial procedures and his insistence on formal attire during executions.His most famous execution took place in 1931 when he beheaded serial killer Peter Kürten, the notorious "Vampire of Düsseldorf." The case attracted international attention and remains one of the most famous criminal executions in German history.Following Adolf Hitler's rise to power, Gröpler continued his work as the Nazi regime dramatically expanded the use of the death penalty. He carried out executions of political opponents and high-profile prisoners, including Baroness Benita von Falkenhayn and Renate von Natzmer. Public reaction to some of these executions contributed to the eventual abolition of beheading by axe in Germany.After decades of service, Gröpler retired in 1937. Following the collapse of Nazi Germany, he was arrested by Soviet authorities and died in custody in 1946.This documentary explores Carl Gröpler's life, Germany's execution system, the transition from the Weimar Republic to the Third Reich, and the role of state executioners in one of Europe's most turbulent eras.This episode is part of the series Executioners of 20th Century.Watch the full documentary and explore hundreds of historical films at:WorldHistory.tv