German High Command

The German High Command, known as Oberkommando der Wehrmacht (OKW), was the military leadership of Nazi Germany during World War II. It coordinated the armed forces, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Established in 1938, it played a critical role in planning and executing military operations. Key figures included leaders like Wilhelm Keitel and Franz Halder. However, the High Command was often influenced by Adolf Hitler's direct involvement in military decisions, which affected strategic effectiveness and flexibility, especially as the war progressed. The High Command's decisions significantly impacted the course of the war and Germany's eventual defeat.