Alan R. Rushton Knihy

The book delves into the hereditary diseases hemophilia and porphyria, exploring their profound impact on the personal and political dynamics of European royal families. It traces the historical significance of these conditions from the ninth century to contemporary times, revealing how they influenced marriages, alliances, and power struggles within the monarchy. Through detailed analysis, it highlights the intersection of genetics and royal lineage, offering insights into the often-hidden challenges faced by these families.

Focusing on the collaboration between British scientists and physicians, this comprehensive historical study explores their efforts to apply the principles of human heredity in medical practice. It delves into the evolving professional interactions and the impact of scientific discoveries on the field of medicine, highlighting the significance of heredity in shaping medical approaches and patient care.

Charles Edward was ruler of the German Duchy of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, president of the German Red Cross, and the grandson of Queen Victoria. He was closely allied with the rise of Adolf Hitler and the implementation of eugenic policies designed to improve German racial health. When war began in 1939, Hitler ordered a secret program of murder by poison gas and starvation to eliminate the mentally and physically handicapped ballast people; approximately 250,000 people were eventually killed. Readers in medicine, law, sociology and history will be interested in this tragic story of a weak-willed, but powerful Nazi leader who facilitated this murderous program, even though one of his own relatives died in the euthanasia scheme. Although Charles Edward traveled to neutral countries during the war, he did nothing to broadcast the inhumane treatment of his own and thousands of other families whose relatives disappeared into the murder machine.

When Hitler came to power in 1933, he labeled physically and mentally handicapped citizens as dangerous to the genetic health of the German people. He initiated a compulsory sterilization program that eventually blocked 400,000 citizens from enjoying any normal family life. With the onset of war in 1939, he decided that resources should be reserved for healthy, worthwhile citizens who could work for victory. He then ordered a secret program to kill the handicapped. Approximately 250,000 citizens had died when the war finally ended. Readers in medicine, law, sociology and history will be intrigued by this compelling story of the brave citizens who spoke out against the immoral killing of the disabled. Many were arrested and imprisoned; some were executed. All the protesters claimed that the disabled were not ballast people. They were people who deserved opportunities to contribute what they could for the good of the community.