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To reinforce the image of Hitler as the Father of his country, Goebbels' efficient propaganda machine afforded generous play to photographs of the unmarried Furher surrounded by adoring youngsters. Although the Nazi press lavished Germans with such comforting icons of their leader, it offered few insights into the man behind the facade - and with good reason. As those who had access to the regime's inner circle knew full well, the magisterial front sustained by Hitler and his top aides covered a multitude of sins and shortcomings. The Furher known to his close associates was far from the omniscient, awe-inspiring figure portrayed to the world. Indeed, this putative master of Europe's destiny was prey to an ominous assortment of private demons.