Paul Schilperoord

About the Author

Paul Schilperoord is a Dutch historian and author renowned for his meticulous research into overlooked figures of the 20th century, blending archival discoveries with compelling narrative to illuminate the human stories behind technological and political upheavals. With a background in industrial history, Schilperoord has dedicated years to uncovering the life of Josef Ganz, a visionary Jewish engineer whose innovative designs for a compact, affordable car were co-opted by the Nazi regime to create the iconic Volkswagen Beetle. Through his groundbreaking work, Schilperoord not only restores Ganz's rightful place in automotive history but also explores the intersections of genius, persecution, and propaganda in pre-World War II Europe. His writing bridges the gap between scholarly depth and accessible storytelling, making complex historical events resonate with contemporary readers interested in innovation and resilience.