Introduction to Post-War History Education in Germany
As a child born into a post-WWII Germany, I witnessed the gradual evolution of the official historical narrative, especially regarding Germany's role during the war. This transformation was closely tied to the passing of firsthand witnesses and the evolving political climate, particularly in the context of the Cold War.
The Official Historical Account and Allied Propaganda
The official stance on German history during the immediate aftermath of the war was often influenced by Soviet and Western Allied propaganda. This included descriptions of Germany's borders in 1939 and the occupation until reunification, as well as the depiction of the GDR as 'Middle Germany' and other occupied territories as merely areas under foreign administration.
The Questioning of the Holocaust and Patriotic Narratives
The Holocaust was openly doubted or rarely mentioned, and magazines glorified the actions of German soldiers. The public radio and TV stations prominently featured war veterans, creating a narrative that whitewashed the controversial actions of the Nazi regime. The harsh occupation by the Soviet Union in what was then called 'Middle Germany' further complicated efforts to demonize the Wehrmacht soldiers who later formed the basis of the new German armed forces.
The 1960s: A Turning Point in Historical Narrative
The 1960s marked a significant shift in the historical narrative with the student protests and the denunciation of the older generation. The phrase 'Unter den Talaren Muff von tausend Jahren' (Under the robes, the stench of a thousand years) was used as a reference to the Nazi 1000-year Reich. The cultural and political divide between the older and younger generations deepened, leading to a relativization of the war role of German soldiers.
The Impact of Socialist Involvement in Education
The influx of socialist-leaning individuals into the teaching profession and other public service sectors began to transform how history was taught. Words like 'family values' and 'Nation' were ostracized, and having fought for Germany became a liability rather than a source of pride. This shift was further exacerbated by reunification, where a new historical account was codified into law, silencing divergent opinions.
The Current State of German History Education
Today, the historical education in Germany bears a striking resemblance to the propaganda of the victors during WWII. This has led to societal attitudes that may be less resistant to the influx of unassimilable migrants from Africa and the Middle East, potentially leading to detrimental outcomes for the German populace.
Conclusion: The Legacy of a Divided History
The significance of this evolution in history education lies in its impact on contemporary societal perceptions. By understanding the historical context, one can appreciate the complexity of post-war German history and its lasting effects on the nation's psyche.
References:
Delmer, S. (1945). Official announcement of English propaganda policy after WWII. Official German history textbooks post-reunification. Interviews with former students and educators during the 1960s.