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Rudolf Hess - The Doppelgänger conspiracy theory disproved
Sherman McCall1, Gabriele Kreindl2, Tamara Kastinger2
1Medical Corps, United States Army Retired, United States.
Forensic Science International. Genetics
|January 28, 2019
Summary
Forensic DNA analysis of prisoner 'Spandau #7' confirms identity as Rudolf Hess, refuting the Doppelgänger Theory. This finding resolves historical doubts surrounding the Nazi official's imprisonment and death.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Genetics
- Historical Investigations
- Molecular Anthropology
Background:
- Rudolf Hess, Deputy Führer of the Third Reich, was imprisoned in Spandau Prison after a 1941 flight to Scotland.
- Concerns and conspiracy theories emerged regarding the true identity of prisoner 'Spandau #7,' suggesting an imposter.
- Hess's reputed 1987 suicide led to his family grave becoming a Neo-Nazi pilgrimage site.
Observation:
- A unique, extant DNA sample from prisoner 'Spandau #7' was subjected to forensic DNA analysis.
- The DNA sample was compared to the Hess male line for genetic matching.
- The analysis aimed to resolve persistent historical questions about prisoner identity.
Findings:
- The forensic DNA analysis revealed a definitive match between the 'Spandau #7' DNA sample and the Hess male line.
- This genetic evidence conclusively refutes the long-standing 'Doppelgänger Theory' that claimed an imposter was imprisoned.
Implications:
- The study provides scientific resolution to historical debates surrounding Rudolf Hess's identity and imprisonment.
- It debunks a prominent conspiracy theory, offering closure on a contentious historical figure.
- The findings underscore the power of forensic genetics in clarifying historical uncertainties.
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