Schkeuditz students shine in the Federal President's history competition!

Schkeuditz students shine in the Federal President's history competition!

The Federal President's history competition has produced new, shining winners. The students Theresa Katharina Schneider and Theodor Ludwig Fuchs from Schkeuditz can look forward to receiving a prestigious award. Over 2,000 entries came from all over Germany, and the duo was able to secure one of the coveted second places, which represents a very special success. The prize, worth 1,500 euros, not only honors her creativity, but also her in-depth research, which resulted in a moving essay.

Theresa researched her family history and dealt with the fate of the Transylvanian Saxons, a German-speaking minority in Romania. During her research, she came across the dramatic experiences of her great-grandmother, who was deported to a Soviet labor camp during the Second World War. This dark episode of history, in which over 30,000 Transylvanian Saxons were imprisoned as reparations, not only shaped their lives, but also that of their family, who largely lost touch with their own culture.

A cinematic masterpiece made from memories

Theresa's essay not only resulted in a literary work, but also an impressive film entitled "Forced Across Borders. The Deportation of the Transylvanian Saxons", which she made together with Theodor. In this film, the cross-generational impact of deportation on the family is impressively visualized. Interviews with Theresa's grandmother and aunt bring the topic even closer and offer an emotional insight into the family history.

The placement in the competition and the associated recognition not only show the commitment of the students, but also what valuable stories lie hidden in the families of different people. It is a wonderful example of history coming to life and connecting new generations across borders.

A look at the numbers

A total of 2,289 entries were submitted for this year's competition, which dealt with the exciting topic "So far and no further!? Limits in history". The fact that so many participants dealt with such an important topic speaks for the interest and relevance of this historical aspect.

Ultimately, Theresa and Theodor's work shows that committed students have a good knack for history and how important it is to deal with one's own roots and the past. Your award is not only a personal achievement, but also encourages others to engage with their own story and pass it on.