Hans Langsdorff was a German naval officer born on March 15, 1884. He is best known for commanding the German cruiser Admiral Graf Spee during the early stages of World War II. Langsdorff was recognized for his leadership and tactical skills in naval warfare. After the Battle of the River Plate in December 1939, where the Admiral Graf Spee was defeated, Langsdorff chose to scuttle his ship rather than allow it to fall into enemy hands. He later took his own life on December 19, 1939, in Montevideo, Uruguay, leaving behind a legacy of honor and bravery.