The Plot to Assassinate Hilter

Claudia Cords-Damon tells the captivating story of her parents, Helmuth and Jutta Cords.

Both German citizens, Jutta and Helmuth met during the Nazi era, fell in love, and ultimately chose to resist Hitler’s regime. Rejecting participation in Nazi Germany, they became involved in the underground resistance movement and took part in Operation Valkyrie, the July 20, 1944 plot to assassinate Adolf Hitler.

Following the failed attempt, both Helmuth and Jutta were imprisoned, along with Jutta’s parents. Against extraordinary odds, all four survived the war.

In the aftermath, Helmuth and Jutta were married in what is believed to have been the first wedding held in post-war Berlin - a love story shaped by resistance, survival, and enduring commitment.

The 1944 Plot to Assassinate Hitler

by Claudia Cords Damon

LESSON PLANS and VIDEO

Story Preservation Initiative wishes to thank Morgan Blum Schneider of the Jewish Family and Children’s Services Holocaust Center in San Francisco for granting permission to use and share her original lesson plan, Surviving Hitler: A Love Story.

The lesson plan follows the story of Jutta and Helmuth Cords and their involvement in the plot to assassinate Hitler.

Click here to access JFCS lesson plan: Surviving Hitler Curriculum, JFCS Holocaust Center

Return to All Chroniclers of European History >

0:30

01 - Intro to Recording

Claudia Cords Damon
7:57

02. Hitler's Rise To Power

Claudia Cords Damon
6:01

03. The German Army

Claudia Cords Damon
6:21

04. Jutta's Move Abroad

Claudia Cords Damon
7:47

05. Helmuth's Introduction to Werner von Haeften

Claudia Cords Damon
7:57

06. The July 20, 1944 Plot

Claudia Cords Damon
8:14

07. Imprisonment

Claudia Cords Damon
7:28

08. Release From Prison

Claudia Cords Damon
4:17

09. Marriage and Move From Berlin

Claudia Cords Damon