Basile Zaharoff is one of the most enigmatic and controversial figures in modern history. Born in what is now known as Greece, Zaharoff was a multi-faceted man – he was a tourist guide, an artillery officer, a bank clerk, and even a diplomat. But it’s likely that he will remain best remembered for his role as Europe’s ‘merchant of death’: an unscrupulous arms dealer who profited from selling weapons to both sides of wars that engulfed the continent.
Nowadays, the life and times of this fascinating individual are explored in further detail through documentaries such as ‘Basile Zaharoff: The Mystery Man’. Consisting of interviews with experts and historians from around the world, the film explores both his remarkable success and damaging legacy. It examines the various deals he made with governments across Europe during WWI which enabled him to become one of the wealthiest men in history, as well as how his activities ultimately led to political unrest and instability throughout much of the 20th century.
Whether you’re interested in learning more about Zaharoff’s complex life or simply want to understand more about this turbulent period in European history, ‘Basile Zaharoff: The Mystery Man’ is sure to provide engaging viewing. With its mixture of honest testimonies and insightful analysis, it provides an enlightening look at what some have called “the greatest businessman who ever lived”. What’s more, by understanding how Zaharoff operated and profited from supplying nations with weapons of war, we gain a greater insight into human nature itself. So why not take some time out today to watch this thought-provoking documentary?
