History of the Volkswagen Beetle

The original Volkswagen Beetle was born from within the Third Reich. Ferdinand Porsche, the founder of Porsche, was commissioned by Adolf Hitler to create a car for the people – Volkswagen translates roughly to the 'people's car.' According to author Billy F. Price in the book 'Adolf Hitler: The Unknown Artist,' this drawing of the prototype Volkswagen was completed by Hitler in 1932 at a restaurant and was passed off to his automotive adviser.
Globe File Photo
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Compiled by Carli Velocci, Boston.com Correspondent

The original Volkswagen Beetle was born from within the Third Reich. Ferdinand Porsche, the founder of Porsche, was commissioned by Adolf Hitler to create a car for the people – Volkswagen translates roughly to the "people's car." According to author Billy F. Price in the book "Adolf Hitler: The Unknown Artist," this drawing of the prototype Volkswagen was completed by Hitler in 1932 at a restaurant and was passed off to his automotive adviser.