The change of memory: what the hour zero really means
The change of memory: what the hour zero really means
May 8, 1945, often referred to as "hour zero", marked the end of the Second World War and the collapse of the National Socialist dictatorship in Germany. During this time, the country was material and morally in ruins. However, the idea of an abrupt fresh start is controversial, because many old elites and existing structures shaped the transition to the new time. May 8th remains a controversial place of remembrance where both resignation and departure thinking were expressed. Today you are increasingly thinking about how this day can be recognized as a symbol of liberation and not just as surrender, as
In addition, the current conflicts, such as the Ukraine War, raise parallels to the experiences after 1945. Here is the hope that Ukraine does not suffer the same fate as Germany then. Problems such as the geopolitical tensions and the endangerment of the transatlantal West are at the pulse of the discussion, as Münkler shows. The reflection on the war and its causes remains of great importance for the current and future society. The social relevance of a lively culture of remembrance is repeatedly emphasized, even if younger generations no longer have any direct memories of the Second World War. The challenge is to not only treat the "never again war" as a phrase, but to actively anchor in history. A lively exchange about the role of ancestors is important to learn from the mistakes of the past. So that the memory of this time is not forgotten, education initiatives and public discussions should be promoted to ensure a reflective argument. Overall, it can be seen that the processing of the history of 1945 and the subsequent time remains indispensable for current society. The lectures and discussions at the University of Heidelberg help to promote an understanding of the complex stories and their importance for the present, which is not least an essential task of history. social relevance of the culture of memory
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| Ort | Heidelberg, Deutschland |
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