New Perspective on Postwar Germany at History Museum

A New Chapter in German History

The Haus der Geschichte in Bonn has unveiled a new permanent exhibition titled "You are part of history." This exhibition brings 80 years of German history to life, covering the post-war period, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and concluding with present-day protests. The museum, known for its chronological approach, now features an interactive experience that spans from 1945 to today.

A Protest Sign as a Historical Document

At the end of the exhibition, visitors will find a red protest sign against the new military conscription law, bearing the slogan "Wages up, armaments down." This sign was brought back by a museum employee from a demonstration at Bonn's Hofgartenwiese on December 5. Just days later, it was already displayed as a historical document in the "Today" section, which is the last of five time periods covered in the exhibition.

A Journey Through Time

The exhibition features approximately 3,800 exhibits that transport visitors through the past eight decades of German history. From the end of World War II in 1945 to the present day, the collection includes significant events from both West and East Germany. The goal of this new permanent exhibition is to bring contemporary history to life, and it was funded with E25 million ($29 million). It took six years to plan and design, and after a 14-month closure, the exhibition is now open to the public.

Federal Government Commissioner’s Impression

Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media Wolfram Weimer, who stood in for Chancellor Friedrich Merz at short notice during the ceremony in Bonn, expressed his admiration for the exhibition: "The new permanent exhibition is a wonderful reflection of our modern history."

A New Focus on German Reunification

Before the renovation, the Haus der Geschichte, which opened in 1994, was one of the most visited museums in Germany. However, by 2024, a certain imbalance between different historical sections had become apparent. For example, the same amount of space was devoted to the 35 years after the fall of the Berlin Wall as to the first four years after the end of World War II. This has now changed, with reunification taking center stage. The 45 years before reunification receive just as much space as the 35 years after it ended.

Current Topics in the Exhibition

Current topics of debate in Germany such as immigration and integration, racism, queer life, climate policy, and the media are now given significantly more space. Personal stories and striking objects, such as a mud-covered doll from the 2021 floods in Ahr Valley, are used to depict recent events, helping young people answer the important question, "Why should I care?"

Interactive Elements

Numerous interactive elements enhance the visitor experience. One station allows visitors to place their own silhouette on images of historical events such as the fall of the Berlin Wall or Germany's victory in the 1954 World Cup. Another display lets visitors vote on the policies they would finance. While sitting on authentic Bundestag seats, they can choose between "Strengthen the military," "Protect wildlife," or divide the money equally. The results can be seen immediately, demonstrating that democracy is simple.

Shaping History

"We want to show how history is made — and how each and every one of us can shape it through our own actions as citizens of a democratic constitutional state," explains Harald Biermann, president of the Haus der Geschichte foundation.

The Importance of the Museum

Minister of State for Culture Wolfram Weimer and Harald Biermann, President of the Haus der Geschichte Foundation, were present at the ceremony in Bonn.

A Key Part in National Identity

Weimer emphasized the museum's importance as "a key part in how we see and think about ourselves." The new permanent exhibition asks: "What kind of democracy do we have, what kind of republic is this?" said Weimer. "Germany has often been described as a democracy on probation. And here you learn that after 80 years, we are already a proven democracy, with all its disputes and conflicts. Presenting this image is a great achievement of this exhibition."