Life journeys: Focus on the GDR and German unity

11.07.2024

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The lecture highlighted life-historical experiences in the final phase of the GDR, German reunification and the transformation phase. In particular, the discrepancy between private family memories and the public image of history was addressed. The focus was on the research project "Family memories" (2019 to 2023).

Dr. Poutrus conducted interviews with three generations of families who consciously experienced the reunification period. The project investigated how families perceived the SED dictatorship and the transformation phase after 1989/90. According to the Thuringia Monitor, there is a positive assessment of everyday life in the GDR, based on family and friends. At the same time, many have a negative view of the political order of the SED state.

As a first step, the project asked about current perceptions of history in families and their generational differences. The memories of 15 Thuringian multi-generational families who consciously experienced the period of change were analyzed. The project investigated how family traditions relate to the public culture of remembrance and historiography.

In a second step, the project compared the family narratives with written sources from the Thuringian State Archives. The result was a multi-perspective view of the GDR past and its significance for the present.

Finally, the lecture presented reflections on the relationship between private remembrance and public commemoration and stimulated a discussion among the 30 or so visitors.

The next event will take place on September 18 and will deal with anti-Semitism. All interested parties are invited to take part in the free events.

Further information: www.praesenzstelle-spremberg.de/wissenschaftsjahr

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