How did Hans von Dohnanyi involve Dietrich Bonhoeffer in resistance to Hitler?
Hans von Dohnanyi, a jurist and Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s brother-in-law, was instrumental in drawing the theologian into the active resistance against the Nazi regime. In 1938, Dohnanyi introduced Bonhoeffer to the clandestine group specifically organized to seek the overthrow of Adolf Hitler.1
Following this introduction, Bonhoeffer’s participation in the resistance deepened significantly. He and Dohnanyi collaborated on efforts to help Jews escape to neutral Switzerland. Furthermore, Dohnanyi facilitated Bonhoeffer’s work within the Military Intelligence Department, which served as a hub for conspirators. This position allowed Bonhoeffer to operate under cover, eventually enabling him to act as a liaison to the British government to propose a negotiated peace.1