Eulenburg Affair: How a Homosexual Scandal Rocked the German Empire

Added: 2026-06-02

[00:00:00]Imagine the following plots. The owner of a stately home invites influential [music] men to homoerotic parties. One of the guests is the head of state known [music] as Liebchen or sweetheart. But the gatherings haven't gone unnoticed.

[00:00:13]Is that the plot of a new series? No, it all actually happens going down in history [music] as the Eulenburg affair centered on Prince Philip of Eulenburg known as Philly to his friends.

[00:00:24]Eulenburg was a diplomat and host of [music] the illustrious gatherings at his castle. Emperor William II was also in attendance. The two were close friends [music] and Eulenburg was one of the ruler's most trusted advisers. The ensuing scandal [music] rocked the empire and also caused an international stir. Journalist Maximilian Harden published sensational [music] articles denouncing Eulenburg and his entourage for homosexual activities [music] taking place at the castle. He feared this was having a negative impact on the emperor. Among those [music] accused, a well-known general. Harden claimed the military leader liked to wear makeup and [music] women's clothes. The general resigned and sued Harden for defamation.

[00:01:05]There were several trials, some [music] also involving Eulenburg. The tabloid press pounced on the story.

[00:01:11]The problem was not only was [music] homosexuality frowned upon, it was a criminal offense. Fighting to save his reputation, the emperor cast Eulenburg aside as an adviser and friend.

[00:01:22]Eulenburg was finished both personally and [music] politically. He died alone at his castle in 1921.