The main discovery was that Hitler had Kallmann syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that disrupts the normal course of puberty and the development of the genital organs. A medical examination in 1923 revealed that he had an undescended testicle. A new study confirmed that this syndrome also had an impact on testosterone levels. Therefore, Hitler had a one in 10 chance of having a “micropenis.” This is also supported by evidence that he was teased for his penis size during the First World War.
Historian Alex Jay Kay of the University of Potsdam believes that these physiological characteristics may have influenced his life, explaining his exceptional devotion to politics at the expense of his personal life. Other members of the Nazi leadership had families and extramarital affairs, while Hitler had no romantic relationships.
The study also disproved the myth of Hitler's Jewish origins. His genetics confirm Austrian-German ancestry.
In terms of mental status, scientists found an increased chance of autism, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, but these findings are not diagnostic and do not provide definitive conclusions. Experts emphasize that his behavior was the result of a combination of many factors: childhood abuse, the trauma of the First World War and the social context.
Scientists and psychologists say the findings should not be used to stigmatize people with similar conditions. Hitler's genetics only created a “canvas” on which other factors took shape that led him to power and crimes.
The documentary will be shown on Channel 4 on November 15th.
