Wilhelm Voigt was a German shoemaker born on May 13, 1849, in Königsberg. He is best known for his role in the Berlin Captain's Coup of 1906, where he famously disguised himself as a military officer. Voigt's actions were motivated by a desire to highlight the absurdity of authority and the rigid social structure of the time. On October 16, 1906, Voigt successfully took control of a military barracks in Berlin using his disguise, ordering soldiers to follow his commands. His stunt drew significant public attention and criticism, leading to his arrest and a prison sentence. Voigt's story remains a notable example of social commentary through theatrical acts.