Archive revolution: How the GDR archives were integrated into the Federal Archives!

Archive revolution: How the GDR archives were integrated into the Federal Archives!

Potsdam, Deutschland - On June 17, 2025, there is a significant step in the history of the German archive landscape: the integration of the Central Archives of the GDR into the Federal Archives. This measure took place in 1990 and represented a major challenge. The Federal Archives had to bring two different archive systems together, take over staff and secure the files from dissolving ministries of the GDR. The entire process required numerous conversations and coordination that began in February 1990 between the Federal Archives and the State Archive Administration of the GDR. One wanted to work out the principles of an overall German archive administration, as https://www.bundesarchiv.de/themen-zeckecken/online-zeckecken/themeigeg-der-archive-grundlagen-und-heilsteine/).

The talks that stretched over several months culminated in a special conference of the archive speakers on May 7, 1990 in Potsdam. Important topics such as the stocks from the Prussian central administration and archivist training were discussed here. The integration of the archives was particularly urgent because there were ambiguities regarding the future departments and organizational units in the Federal German Federal Archives.

a central institution for the cultural heritage

The Federal Archives, which was founded in Koblenz in 1952, is a central facility to secure Germany's cultural and historical heritage. It not only preserves documents, but also photographs and films that tell stories from the imperial era to the present. The main agency is located in Koblenz, while there are several locations in the Federal Republic, including three in Berlin. The Berlin locations are located in Lichtenberg, Lichterfelde and Tegel, such as [archive-berlin.de explained in detail.

The most valuable stocks include official documents, military -historical documents and materials on the history of National Socialism and the GDR. The Stasi documents in particular are very interested in researchers and the public. Many of these stocks are continuously supplemented by new materials and are now also accessible online. Users have to register and can ask inquiries to view the documents or to take part in tours and workshops.

a dynamic process

The challenges associated with the integration of the archives did not fail to materialize. There were difficulties in implementing due to the historical exceptional situation in which Germany was located. However, the recommendations of the Conference of Ministers of Culture helped organizational merger of the archives to take a clear course. In August 1990, the President of the Federal Archives informed the workforce of the current situation and tried for transparency within the organization.

The association of the archives has also changed the perception of the Federal Archives. It is no longer just the "Koblenz Federal Archive", but has established itself as a whole national archive through the inclusion of the Ostarchive. The goal of documenting the history of Germany and making it accessible to the public is still the focus of the work of the Federal Archives.

With progressive digitization and the development of new forms of presentation, the Federal Archives continue to help that the memories and knowledge of the history of Germany are not forgotten. The archive is more than just a place of storage; It is a living space that promotes the exchange of knowledge and understanding of history.

Details
OrtPotsdam, Deutschland
Quellen

Kommentare (0)