By: HISTORY.com Editors
Hitler calls for last stand on the Eastern front
On April 16, 1945, Adolf Hitler proclaims from his underground bunker that deliverance was at hand from encroaching Russian troops—and that his beloved capital city of Berlin would remain German. A “mighty artillery is meeting the enemy,” proclaims Der Fuhrer. "This time the Bolsheviks will experience Asia's old fate. That is, he must and will bleed to death in front of the capital of the German Reich."
In his April 16 order, Hitler tried to shame his troops into holding the line against the Allies. "Whosoever does not do his duty at this moment is a traitor to our nation. The regiment or division that leaves its position acts so disgracefully that it will have to be ashamed before the women and children who are withstanding the bombing terror in our towns."
Two weeks later, on April 30, Hitler would commit suicide in his bunker, rather than face responsibility for his monstrous war crimes. On May 7, Germany officially surrendered unconditionally.
Also on This Day in History
Discover more of the major events, famous births, notable deaths and everything else history-making that happened on April 16th
Related
World War II
214 videosThese photos show the chaos and courage of the 1940 evacuation, when hundreds of thousands of Allied troops escaped German forces by sea.
Victory over Japan Day ushered in peace after the devastation of World War II.
The torpedoing of the German ocean liner *Wilhelm Gustloff* in 1945 led to the deaths of some 9,000 men, women and children.
About the author
HISTORY.com works with a wide range of writers and editors to create accurate and informative content. All articles are regularly reviewed and updated by the HISTORY.com team. Articles with the “HISTORY.com Editors” byline have been written or edited by the HISTORY.com editors, including Amanda Onion, Christian Zapata, Cristiana Lombardo and Adrienne Donica.
Fact Check
We strive for accuracy and fairness. But if you see something that doesn't look right, click here to contact us! HISTORY reviews and updates its content regularly to ensure it is complete and accurate.
Citation Information
- Article Title
- Hitler calls for last stand on the Eastern front
- Author
- HISTORY.com Editors
- Website Name
- History
- Date Accessed
- October 21, 2026
- Publisher
- A&E Television Networks
- Last Updated
- May 27, 2025
- Original Published Date
- November 16, 2009