The SS had its beginnings in the turbulent street politics of the Weimer Republic. It became Henrich Himmler's personal power-base and under him the SS grew into a vast private army and state-within-the-state. It was chaotic, corrupt, and often grossly inefficient organisation. But one part of it - the 'Waffen' or 'Armed' SS, formed initially as a fighting force - achieved worldwide fame and notoriety...