Rudolf Höss, the commandant of Auschwitz concentration camp, defended his actions to the court in various ways:
1. He claimed he was following orders: Höss argued that he was simply carrying out orders from his superiors without question. This defense is often referred to as the "just following orders" defense.
2. He believed he was serving his country: Höss stated that he believed he was doing what was necessary for the well-being and success of Germany. This defense implies a sense of duty and loyalty to his country above all else.
3. He minimized his role: At times, Höss attempted to downplay his own involvement and responsibility in the atrocities committed at Auschwitz. By trying to shift blame or diminish his own actions, he aimed to reduce his culpability.
Overall, Rudolf Höss used a combination of justifications to defend his actions to the court, including following orders, loyalty to Germany, and minimizing his role in the atrocities committed during his time at Auschwitz.
