Ingo Hasselbach was a key figure in East Germany's right-wing extremist scene in 1990, ready to use lethal force to change the system. Today, he discusses his exit and the so-called 'Baseball bat years' in a SPIEGEL TV film. The documentary sheds light on his time as a neonazi and his transformation.
In 1990, Ingo Hasselbach emerged as a prominent figure in the right-wing extremist scene in East Germany. He declared himself ready to 'kill to change the system,' as recounted in the SPIEGEL TV film 'The Leader of Berlin.' Known as the 'Führer of Berlin,' Hasselbach later exited the neonazi movement and now publicly reflects on his past.
The three-part documentary 'The Baseball Bat Years,' produced by Caroline Niebisch and Philipp Schneuer, delves into Hasselbach's experiences. The first part, titled 'I am a National Socialist,' describes his ideological commitment. The second part, 'We wanted to smash their faces,' highlights the violent clashes. In the third part, he explains: 'It is an arms race, first with fists, then with baseball bats,' outlining the escalation of conflicts.
These 'Baseball bat years' refer to the period of intense right-wing violence in early 1990s Germany. Hasselbach's statements provide insights into the scene's dynamics and serve as a warning against extremism. The film emphasizes his exit and willingness to discuss the dark era to aid others.