Field marshal (German: Generalfeldmarschall) was the highest military rank in the German Empire and, after 1918, Germany, for seventy-five years.[1][a] Although the rank had existed in northern German states since 1631 under a different name,[2] it was re-created in 1870 for Prince Friedrich Karl of Prussia and Emperor Frederick III for the purpose of making them senior to other generals.[2] It became the most prestigious and the highest rank an officer could reach until it was abolished in 1945.

In total, more than 100 generals became field marshals in northern German states or subsequent unified Germany between 1806 and 1945. The vast majority of the people promoted to field marshal won major battles in wars of their century. Field marshals played a compelling and influential role in military matters,[3] were tax-exempt, members of the nobility,[3] equal to government officials,[3] under constant protection or escort,[3] and had the right to directly report to the royal family.[3]
0:00 1631-1888
0:38 1657-1870
2:14 German Empire
4:10 German Marshal of World War II

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