Erich Ludendorff was a German general and military strategist during World War I. He is best known for his role as the de facto leader of the German military during the later stages of the war. Ludendorff was a key figure in the development of the German military strategy and was a driving force behind the implementation of total war tactics. He was also a prominent nationalist and played a significant role in the political and social upheaval in Germany following the war.