Francesco, my brilliant brother, acted as Lead Council between the king and the pope, securing Vatican City’s independence. Mussolini, who signed on behalf of the king, played an essential role in compensating the Vatican for its loss of the Papal States.
In a grand gesture of recognition, Mussolini commemorated the successful negotiations by commissioning the Via della Conciliazione, a symbolic stre’et linking the Vatican City to the heart of Rome. This subtle act was a silent nod to everything my brother has done for the prime minister.
Brother, I commend you on this triumphant treaty. You continue to be a great role model that inspires me.
Cardinal Eugenio Pacelli
8 February 1930
The Art of War
#16 While heading the profit of my counsel,
avail yourself also of any helpful
Circumstances over and beyond the ordinary rules.
Pope Pius XI has appointed me Vatican Cardinal Secretary of State. I am now responsible for foreign policy and state relations throughout the world.
The Council has faithfully enacted my rise through the Vatican hierarchy. My mission to assume the papacy is on schedule. I believe Grandfather would be proud of my progress fulfilling his vision.
My brother and I are working together once again in the Vatican. In carrying out the Council’s mission, we shall be victorious.
Secretary of State,
Archbishop Eugenio Pacelli
Chapter 33
21 January 1930
Munich, Germany
“Herr Hitler.”
“Is there a problem, Your Excellency?” Hitler’s voice was laced with apprehension as he entered the cardinal’s study.
“Quite the opposite, Adolf. My mission is progressing as planned, in tandem with yours.”
“And might I ask, have there been any new developments?”
“I have been elevated to the position of Vatican Secretary of State, Adolf,” Pacelli announced, his voice carrying a note of triumph.
“Congratulations, Your Excellency.” Hitler’s voice betrayed a hint of surprise.
“Ah. Do not concern yourself thinking your mission has been derailed in any way,” Pacelli reassured him.
It was only when Pacelli mentioned this that Hitler began to worry Pacelli’s promotion might hinder his own ascent to power. Without the cardinal guiding his every move, he feared he might lose the momentum he’d been building towards becoming the leader of the Third Reich.
“You mean to return to Rome? How will I proceed without you, Your Excellency?” Hitler’s voice was filled with frustration; he could feel his dream of becoming Führer, his Führermuseum, and the adoration of the German people all slipping away from him.
Pacelli had anticipated this reaction. Hitler seemed oblivious to the influence, connections, and power that Pacelli and the Council wielded across Europe. Didn’t he recognize all that Pacelli had done for him so far? Had Pacelli not fulfilled all his promises?
“I understand the anger boiling within you, Adolf. However, for you to ascend to the esteemed position of Führer, it is imperative that I, too, ascend to the pinnacle of power within the Vatican. I must occupy the highest seat of authority to ensure your triumph, Adolf.”
Hitler’s mind churned with the realization that his own political ascension in Germany was inextricably linked to Pacelli’s rise within the Vatican. As the Nuncio of Germany representing the Vatican, Pacelli was merely that: a representative. For Hitler to claim the highest echelons of German power, Pacelli would need to ascend to the ultimate position within the Vatican—the papacy. The mechanics of this ascension were unclear to Hitler, yet every prophecy the cardinal had made in their meetings had come to fruition. How could Hitler now doubt the cardinal’s foresight? It immediately became clear to him that Pacelli’s promotion within the Vatican was a pivotal stepping stone on his path to becoming Führer.
“I understand, Your Excellency. Please accept my apologies for my lack of faith,” Hitler articulated, his body bending forward in a profound act of deference towards the distinguished ambassador of the Vatican. In that instant, Hitler’s allegiance to the cardinal crystallized, deepening like iron bonds tempered in the furnace of faith.
“You are destined for greatness, mein Führer,” the cardinal’s voice echoed in the room, a prophecy hanging in the air.
Hitler maintained his bowed position, absorbing the weight of the cardinal’s words.
“I have already informed Herr Hess about my promotion. He will serve as our intermediary, relaying my instructions to you.” The cardinal’s voice was steady and reassuring.
“I understand, Your Excellency.” Hitler straightened, his eyes meeting the cardinal’s, waiting for any additional instruction. Pacelli’s silence filled the room, a clear indication their meeting had reached its conclusion. With a final nod, Hitler turned and exited the study. Both men got back to their busy work of changing the world.
Chapter 34
4 February 1933
The Art of War
#23 Pretend inferiority and encourage his arrogance.
My phone conversation with President Paul von Hindenburg convinced him to name Hitler Chancellor of Germany. The extensive collection of incriminating and compromising pictures made the president’s decision not only inevitable but obvious.
Hitler’s promotion to the second highest rank in Germany is exceeded only by the president himself. Having this newfound position of authority, Hitler ordered the immediate and rapid expansion of the Gestapo, putting Hermann Göring in charge. The Gestapo will put a swift end to any opposition that challenges the Nazi Party’s supremacy.
Hitler is implementing the Council’s plans flawlessly. Our mission is on the brink of being fulfilled.
Secretary of State,
Archbishop Eugenio Pacelli
3 March 1933
The Art of War
#21 When he concentrates, prepare against him;
where he is strong, avoid him.
The German Parliament Reichstag building burned to the ground after our covert arson attack. Hitler is using this as propaganda blaming the Communist Party.
By Decree of President von Hindenburg, the Schutzstaffel (SS) Stormtroopers can arrest and imprison opponents without specific charges, eliminate any political opposition, and control all publications. This gives Hitler’s government the authority to overthrow state and local governments.
The Nazi Party has taken control of the government.
