Did Hermann G?ring Really Have an IQ of 149?

We often hear about the high IQs of historical figures, particularly during the Nazi era. The Wechsler-Bellevue Intelligence Test reveals some fascinating intelligence scores among the key figures of the Third Reich. However, when it comes to Hermann G?ring, the claims can be a bit misleading. Let's dive into the details and see what the data really tells us.

High IQs Among Nazi Leaders

The highest IQ scores among the Nazi leaders are as follows:

Hjalmar Schacht: 143 Arthur Seyss-Inquart: 141 Hermann G?ring: 138 Karl D?nitz: 138 Franz von Papen: 134 Erich Raeder: 134 Hans Frank: 130 Hans Fritsche: 130 Baldur von Schirach: 130 Joachim von Ribbentrop: 129 Wilhelm Keitel: 129 Albert Speer: 128 Alfred Jodl: 127 Alfred Rosenberg: 127 Constantin von Neurath: 125 Walther Funk: 124 Wilhelm Frick: 124 Rudolf Hess: 120 Fritz Sauckel: 118 Ernst Kaltenbrunner: 113 Julius Streicher: 106

Of note, conservatives often mention Hermann G?ring’s IQ of 149, but this figure is not entirely accurate. The sources typically cited for G?ring's IQ of 149 often refer to Karl D?nitz and Arthur Seyss-Inquart, who both scored 138 on the Wechsler-Bellevue Intelligence Test. It appears that there might be a misunderstanding or a misquote. Let’s explore the actual data with more accuracy.

Assessment During the Nuremberg Trials

After the war, the Nuremberg trials provided a unique opportunity for Allied intelligence agencies to assess the intellectual capabilities of the Nazi leaders. During these trials, all the defendants were given IQ tests. Interestingly, even the lowest scoring defendant, Julius Streicher, scored 106, which is at the upper end of the normal range (IQ 100-109).

Notable scores include:

Hermann G?ring: 138 Karl D?nitz: 138 Arthur Seyss-Inquart: 141 Hitler (estimated): 120-140

Hitler himself, who never officially took an IQ test, was known for his exceptional intelligence. He had a photographic memory, which is a significant cognitive skill. Given his reputation for being exceptionally intelligent, it is plausible that his IQ could have been similarly high.

The Myth of High Intelligence

Some sources claim that Hitler had an intelligence level over 140. However, a closer look at the available data suggests that his IQ was likely around the average high range, roughly between 120 and 140. The term 'highly intelligent but not gifted' seems more appropriate to describe his cognitive abilities.

Conclusion and Further Reading

In conclusion, while Hermann G?ring scored 138 on the Wechsler-Bellevue Intelligence Test, the claims of his IQ being 149 are not well-supported by the existing data. The actual figures from the Nuremberg IQ tests reveal that all Nazi leaders, including G?ring, scored exceptionally high, with G?ring and D?nitz sharing the highest scores.

To delve deeper into the intelligence and capabilities of the Nazi leadership, consider exploring further historical sources, including:

The Wechsler-Bellevue Intelligence Scale results of Nazi leaders during the Nuremberg trials. Historical biographies of key Nazi figures. Methods and interpretations of IQ testing during the mid-20th century.

Understanding the intelligence of Nazi leaders is crucial in comprehending the complex dynamics of the Third Reich and World War II.