Dollfuss: An Austrian Patriot
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Introduced in this book is Englebert Dollfuss, the Austrian hero who plotted a course for Austria against Nazism, against Socialism, and against unbridled capitalism until his assassination by the Nazis in 1934. This is the story of the Austrian chancellor who attempted to act as a moral force to bring a divided, bankrupt, and bitter Europe to its senses. It details how he persuaded people of many different political persuasions to follow and support that policy, not through elegant speeches, worthless programs, and empty promises, but through common sense, good humor, overpowering honesty, and tremendous personal sacrifice.
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It is important to read this book in context, as a hagiography published following Dollfuss' death rather than as a serious work of historical scholarship. The book presents a view of Dollfuss which deviates from the mainstream positions you will find in English or German-language scholarship. While those views are either hostile, such as those presented by left-wing historians, or otherwise critical, Messner praises Dollfuss as a patriotic Catholic who was acting in the best interests of his country. Naturally he omits some negative information or explains it away
Nevertheless, the book has its upsides. The unique perspective gives an important look at contemporary views of Dollfuss and it does contain a lot of information which is useful to learning more about the chancellor.
As a book it is an interesting account of Dollfuss. When read in the proper context and understood to not be an objective work of history, it is worth reading.
