Erich von Manstein was one of the most brilliant and controversial German military commanders during World War II. Born on November 24, 1887, in Berlin, into an aristocratic Prussian family, Manstein grew up in a military environment, with his father being a Prussian army general.

After completing his military education, Manstein joined the German army in 1906 as an infantry officer. During World War I, he served on both the Western and Eastern Fronts, distinguishing himself for his bravery and earning several decorations for battlefield valor.