Hjalmar Schacht was indeed an economist. He was a prominent figure in the economic and political landscape of Germany during the early 20th century. Schacht's contributions and involvement in various economic policies and institutions played a significant role in shaping the German economy during that time.

Early Life and Education:
Hjalmar Schacht was born on January 22, 1877, in Tinglev, Denmark. He grew up in a wealthy family and received a comprehensive education in economics and finance. Schacht studied at universities in Munich, Leipzig, and Berlin, where he specialized in economics and earned his doctorate in 1899.

Career and Contributions:
Schacht's career spanned several decades and encompassed various roles in both the public and private sectors. Here are some of his notable contributions:

1. Reichsbank President:
In 1923, Schacht was appointed as the President of the Reichsbank, the central bank of Germany. He played a crucial role in stabilizing the German currency during the hyperinflation crisis of the early 1920s. Through his policies, such as the introduction of the Rentenmark, Schacht successfully curbed inflation and restored confidence in the German economy.

2. Weimar Republic:
During the Weimar Republic era, Schacht served as a key advisor to the government on economic matters. He advocated for a moderate approach to economic policy, promoting measures to restore Germany's financial stability and reduce unemployment. Schacht's expertise and influence were instrumental in Germany's economic recovery during this period.

3. Economic Policy under the Nazis:
Schacht's association with the Nazi regime began in the early 1930s when he joined the National Socialist German Workers' Party (NSDAP). Adolf Hitler appointed him as the Minister of Economics in 1934. Schacht implemented various economic policies to stimulate Germany's economy, including public works projects and trade agreements. However, he eventually fell out of favor with Hitler due to policy disagreements.

4. Post-War Trials and Later Years:
After World War II, Schacht faced trial at the Nuremberg Trials for his role in the Nazi regime. However, he was acquitted of charges related to war crimes and crimes against humanity. Schacht continued to work as an economist and published several books on economic theory and policy.

Conclusion:
Hjalmar Schacht was a prominent economist who played a significant role in German economic affairs during the early 20th century. His expertise, particularly in monetary policy and economic stabilization, made him a key figure in Germany's economic recovery during times of crisis. However, his association with the Nazi regime remains a controversial aspect of his career.

True, Hjalmar Schacht was an economist, Option A.