German Culture 110 taught me very much about current and past
German Culture, History, what's changed in Germany, and also very
much about the world today. The professor was not only able to teach
us all about Germany, but brought up many issues involving the U.S.
and the world today. I think that is what college should be all
about; opening up your mind to knew ideas and reflecting on what you
have learned, gaining a better understanding of today's issues. He
also expanded on each subject, and each class member's blog during
presentations to help the class understand the significance of each
topic. The whole blog setup was very new to me. I had never taken a
class that ran off of a blog, but after experiencing it, I expect it
will be something that I might see in the future while taking similar
classes. It took me a little bit to get used to the format and
everything, but once I did, it became very easy for me to find where
we were in class, what was expected, and compared my work with other
classmates to make sure that it was up to par.
The class began by the students taking part in a group project on
the subject of Germany's states. I think this was a great way to
start so that we could all understand the cities and areas that are
being referred later on in the class. After that, there was another
group project on the political system of Germany. Our group was quite
large which made it difficult to meet up, but given today's
technology, we were able to make it work. While going through those
topics we were also reading "All Quiet on the Western Front."
This was a book depicting a young WWI soldier's experiences. It was
graphic and moving, giving the reader an in depth look at what it may
have been like in the trenches. This book not only helped us learn a
little more about German culture, but provoked thoughts on war and
what it does to people. We did took an in depth look at the messages
relayed by the author in each chapter, and the book as a whole.
Unlike most books or movies, this novel ended with the death of the
main character and no happy ending. I think this helps the reader
realize that that was the feeling for many who lost friends and
family in war, there is no happy ending. The next unit included
multiple presentations on the history of German literature, arts,
industry, and a few other topics. This was essentially an all-around
history lesson of Germany. Many students probably realized how many
different things actually come from Germany, like the printing press,
Bayer, and the Brothers Grimm. Once we finished with history, we
began the viewing of a couple films, "Berlin Calling" and
"The Baader-Meinhof Complex" to help us gain and
understanding of current German Youth culture. I thought these two
were very interesting movies but at the same time very informational.
Berlin Calling focused on the life of a new DJ, and his experiences
with drugs and a fast paced party lifestyle. The Baader-Meinhoff
Complex was about the RAF, which was an extremist group focused on
taking down the current government system and capitalism. The film
showed us the progression of the group using peaceful protest to
violent armed bank robberies and kidnappings. Although these movies
were set in Germany and scripted in German, they portrayed issues
that are facing the entire world today and opened the class's mind to
new ways of thinking. I very much enjoyed the class discussion
following the movie about violence vs. non-violence. This class was
definitely a mind opener; a much needed break from the constant
redundancies of normal class. After the films, every student
researched a popular German food. It was fun to check out what
German's eat, and hopefully soon I get to try much of them myself.
Overall, the class was very insightful and thought provoking on
many different German and world issues. I would recommend taking this
class for anyone.
Monday, December 17, 2012
The Edukators, Goodbye Lenin Reaction
After viewing both of the films offered on the class blog, I was able to form yet a better understanding of German youth culture. In the first film, the "Edukators", there were many recurring themes between that movie and the "Baader-Meinhof Complex". Each film had a focus on the viewpoint of the German youth with strong ideals and putting them into action. Most young Germans were probably not as motivated as to put their ideals and beliefs to work, or were at least waiting for someone, or something, to come along and really push them to get out and make a difference. There were several references to the RAF movement and the 68's in the "Edukators." Ironically, the man that the group kidnapped was once involved in a similar movement when he was young and told one of the Edukators something like: "any man who is not a liberal before 30, has no heart, but if you are a liberal after 30, you have no brains." The CEO then went on to explain why people who get old often change and end up as the very people the youth movement was against. For the people who reap the benefits of a capitalist system, it is easy to live by and forget about others' problems as long as it doesn't involve you. As for the people supporting the movement, they have seen what its like to live at the bottom without any hope of getting out and it becomes easy for them to force change. I liked what the Edukators were doing with the ultra-rich houses. It was illegal, yes, but not as violent as with what the RAF had done. I think it is a better approach, but it is much more difficult than that to change the system.
In the film "Goodbye Lenin," I was able to get a much better insight of what East Germany was like during the time of its existence. As with the other two movies, there was a focus on the lives' of German youth and the effects that the current system had on them. This movie was slightly different, though, coming from the inside of a Communists state vs. the viewpoints of youth in a Westernized state. The main character, Alex, was involved in a youth protest against the separation of Germany and for the right of free speech/freedom of the press. This contrasts with the other two movies where the protestors wanted a more socialist state. That is interesting to me because each one wanted what the other was experiencing. Goodbye Lenin was more of an educational movie vs. an emotionally exciting film. While the story unfolded with Alex's mom and the family's ruse of keeping her in the past GDR, the film showed many depictions of the actions that took place during the end of the GDR and Berlin Wall. There were many clips in the film that were actual news footage from the events themselves. I thought that helped in giving me much greater insight into what happened during the end of the USSR, GDR, reunification of Germany and the effects on their people.
In the film "Goodbye Lenin," I was able to get a much better insight of what East Germany was like during the time of its existence. As with the other two movies, there was a focus on the lives' of German youth and the effects that the current system had on them. This movie was slightly different, though, coming from the inside of a Communists state vs. the viewpoints of youth in a Westernized state. The main character, Alex, was involved in a youth protest against the separation of Germany and for the right of free speech/freedom of the press. This contrasts with the other two movies where the protestors wanted a more socialist state. That is interesting to me because each one wanted what the other was experiencing. Goodbye Lenin was more of an educational movie vs. an emotionally exciting film. While the story unfolded with Alex's mom and the family's ruse of keeping her in the past GDR, the film showed many depictions of the actions that took place during the end of the GDR and Berlin Wall. There were many clips in the film that were actual news footage from the events themselves. I thought that helped in giving me much greater insight into what happened during the end of the USSR, GDR, reunification of Germany and the effects on their people.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Blue Sheet Questions, Class Exercise.
1. The Baader-Meinhof group began organizing protests in a common, peaceful manner. Many of the activists were very passionate about their cause and willing to devote much time and effort to making a change. Meinhof was only slightly involved in a few of the actual protests or demonstrations that the group carried out. Despite her docile nature, her voice was the most heard because she was originally a journalist that went big when one of her writings was published and enabled the group to gain many followers. She served as the voice of the young rebel group. As Baader and the others started resorting to arson and other violent acts, she stayed in the rear. Until, Baader needed to escape from prison and the group was short on members, forcing Meinhof to take part in the violent extraction of their captive leader. Meinhof was then stripped of her innocence of being just the "voice" of the group.
2. In the beginning, I felt a sort of sympothy and understanding for the rebel group, but as the movie drew on, their actions became too brutal for me to support. I think that they would have been able to bring more followers had their actions not turned so barbaric.
3. Baader's personality had a very profound impact on the group, and without him the group may very well not have formed at all. His blind courage made it possible for the group to break through that barrier of being peaceful protesters to full-blown rebel activists. Normally, leaders are generally charismatic and level-headed people, but in the case of a rebel group like the RAF, a more zealous leader was needed to push the members beyond their comfort zones and into the world of a rebel soldier
4. It was very interesting to see where most the class stood when it came to violence vs. pacifism. I was not quite surprised, though, when a majority of the class took stance on the aggressive side. I think the fact that this exercise was done in a relatively rural area of the Midwest was a major factor of why more people stood on the right side. I took stance in the middle right section, more towards the pro-force side. I think the use of weapons aimed at your oppressor should be a last resort for social change. Many leaders in history were able to make a difference without killing. But, like in the case of the American revolution, a strong opposition of firepower is necessary.
2. In the beginning, I felt a sort of sympothy and understanding for the rebel group, but as the movie drew on, their actions became too brutal for me to support. I think that they would have been able to bring more followers had their actions not turned so barbaric.
3. Baader's personality had a very profound impact on the group, and without him the group may very well not have formed at all. His blind courage made it possible for the group to break through that barrier of being peaceful protesters to full-blown rebel activists. Normally, leaders are generally charismatic and level-headed people, but in the case of a rebel group like the RAF, a more zealous leader was needed to push the members beyond their comfort zones and into the world of a rebel soldier
4. It was very interesting to see where most the class stood when it came to violence vs. pacifism. I was not quite surprised, though, when a majority of the class took stance on the aggressive side. I think the fact that this exercise was done in a relatively rural area of the Midwest was a major factor of why more people stood on the right side. I took stance in the middle right section, more towards the pro-force side. I think the use of weapons aimed at your oppressor should be a last resort for social change. Many leaders in history were able to make a difference without killing. But, like in the case of the American revolution, a strong opposition of firepower is necessary.
German Homestyle Foods
I tried to focus my food research on home-cooked foods that an
average middle-class German family might have for dinner. Personally, I
am more interested in the real culture of the country more so than the
tourism side that most people would experience.
VEGETABLE PANCAKES†
(GEMÜSE PFANNENKUCHEN)
3/4 lbs. zucchini
2 red bell peppers
1 cup broth (vegetable, chicken or beef)
8 oz. mushrooms
1/2 cup diced onions
2 tablespoons oil
2 large eggs
2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup milk
1 1/2 tablespoons flour
1/2 cup whipping cream
1 cup chopped parsley
salt, garlic salt and pepper
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_fvhtT9LCKJA/TI42LD8sHqI/AAAAAAAAA1c/yZZ79qrmvO0/s1600/015+a+-+Copy.jpg
http://www.germancookbooks.com/Free_Recipes/Vegetable%20Pancakes.pdf
'Tis the season. Here is a traditional Christmas meal originated in Switzerland but very much enjoyed in Germany on Christmas Eve. A special cooking appliance called a Raclette grill is needed to melt cheese in a certain way and is served with an assortment of vegetables like potatoes, onions, and potatoes, meats, and bread. Each guest can build the meal that he or she desires. It somewhat resembles a buffet that comes together to create one solid meal. Raclette is a cow cheese most commonly used for melting onto bread, and below is a picture of the dish and the grill needed to prepare the meal. The word Raclette was said to be introduced in the middle ages, and was a nutritious meal that peasants often put together. Notice the variety of vegetables and meats so that each person can choose precisely what they want.
http://www.germanfoodguide.com/advent-dec11.cfm
I know, it is a little cliche, but here is an example of a true German beer that locals will enjoy. Here in the Midwest we pride ourselves on our "authentic" German named beers, but there is a great difference between the beers in Germany and the U.S. Many preservatives are added to American beers to give a longer shelf life. Mass production is the culprit. German beers are often produced by smaller, local breweries, and maintain a truer taste but have a much shorter shelf life. The Dortmunder Export might be a popular beer consumed in North Rhine-Westphalia. Here is Wiki's description of the popular pilsner, "[Like all other pale lagers the beer is a pale gold colour, with a moderate bitterness from the noble hops, a lean, well attenuated body, and a crisp carbonation.]"
http://www.weideland.com/bier/bier/Dortmunder%20Union%20Export.JPG
http://www.germanbeerinstitute.com/styles.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dortmunder_Export
VEGETABLE PANCAKES†
(GEMÜSE PFANNENKUCHEN)
3/4 lbs. zucchini
2 red bell peppers
1 cup broth (vegetable, chicken or beef)
8 oz. mushrooms
1/2 cup diced onions
2 tablespoons oil
2 large eggs
2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup milk
1 1/2 tablespoons flour
1/2 cup whipping cream
1 cup chopped parsley
salt, garlic salt and pepper
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_fvhtT9LCKJA/TI42LD8sHqI/AAAAAAAAA1c/yZZ79qrmvO0/s1600/015+a+-+Copy.jpg
http://www.germancookbooks.com/Free_Recipes/Vegetable%20Pancakes.pdf
'Tis the season. Here is a traditional Christmas meal originated in Switzerland but very much enjoyed in Germany on Christmas Eve. A special cooking appliance called a Raclette grill is needed to melt cheese in a certain way and is served with an assortment of vegetables like potatoes, onions, and potatoes, meats, and bread. Each guest can build the meal that he or she desires. It somewhat resembles a buffet that comes together to create one solid meal. Raclette is a cow cheese most commonly used for melting onto bread, and below is a picture of the dish and the grill needed to prepare the meal. The word Raclette was said to be introduced in the middle ages, and was a nutritious meal that peasants often put together. Notice the variety of vegetables and meats so that each person can choose precisely what they want.
http://www.germanfoodguide.com/advent-dec11.cfm
I know, it is a little cliche, but here is an example of a true German beer that locals will enjoy. Here in the Midwest we pride ourselves on our "authentic" German named beers, but there is a great difference between the beers in Germany and the U.S. Many preservatives are added to American beers to give a longer shelf life. Mass production is the culprit. German beers are often produced by smaller, local breweries, and maintain a truer taste but have a much shorter shelf life. The Dortmunder Export might be a popular beer consumed in North Rhine-Westphalia. Here is Wiki's description of the popular pilsner, "[Like all other pale lagers the beer is a pale gold colour, with a moderate bitterness from the noble hops, a lean, well attenuated body, and a crisp carbonation.]"
http://www.weideland.com/bier/bier/Dortmunder%20Union%20Export.JPG
http://www.germanbeerinstitute.com/styles.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dortmunder_Export
Thursday, December 6, 2012
RAF
The Red Army Faction
The causes that lead to the formation of the RAF were the Vietnam War, Imperialism, fear of another regime similar to the Nazis, and more directly the murder of a student protester during a demonstration at the arrival of the Shah of Iran. An attempted assassination on activist Rudi Deutschke further fueled the fire of the RAF movement. In spring of 1968 Baader and Ensslin set fire to a department store. This was one of their first acts to start the movement. Their believes were often based in the writings of Mao Zedong, Ho Chi Minh, Che, and Karl Marx.
Baader and Meinhof were the leaders of the first generation of the RAF, and gave it that name. After their arrests the second generation of the RAF, and possibly the most brutal. The fall of the USSR was major blow to remaining activists as that was a first hand example of the problems with communism, but the RAF continued.
The end of the RAF was official when Rueters magazine received a fax of an 8-page typed letter stating that the group had dissolved.
The RAF can be related to recent terror attacks around the world but is slightly different in most cases. We have seen a fall in attacks by extreme leftist groups and a rise by religious groups. Recent large scale attacks such as 9-11 or the train bombings in Spain or Great Britain were at a larger scale and aimed not at just the government but at people themselves. The RAF did not want to harm the workers of their country but the institutions that they disagreed with. Recent terrorist attacks by the Al Queda and groups of the like were aimed at civilians. That is a stark difference but the RAF used many similar techniques.
The causes that lead to the formation of the RAF were the Vietnam War, Imperialism, fear of another regime similar to the Nazis, and more directly the murder of a student protester during a demonstration at the arrival of the Shah of Iran. An attempted assassination on activist Rudi Deutschke further fueled the fire of the RAF movement. In spring of 1968 Baader and Ensslin set fire to a department store. This was one of their first acts to start the movement. Their believes were often based in the writings of Mao Zedong, Ho Chi Minh, Che, and Karl Marx.
Baader and Meinhof were the leaders of the first generation of the RAF, and gave it that name. After their arrests the second generation of the RAF, and possibly the most brutal. The fall of the USSR was major blow to remaining activists as that was a first hand example of the problems with communism, but the RAF continued.
The end of the RAF was official when Rueters magazine received a fax of an 8-page typed letter stating that the group had dissolved.
The RAF can be related to recent terror attacks around the world but is slightly different in most cases. We have seen a fall in attacks by extreme leftist groups and a rise by religious groups. Recent large scale attacks such as 9-11 or the train bombings in Spain or Great Britain were at a larger scale and aimed not at just the government but at people themselves. The RAF did not want to harm the workers of their country but the institutions that they disagreed with. Recent terrorist attacks by the Al Queda and groups of the like were aimed at civilians. That is a stark difference but the RAF used many similar techniques.
"The Baader Meinhof Complex," film Reaction
I would first like to point out the quality and realism of the film. The actors and producers did a phenomenal job re-creating the events that occurred involving the RAF. I think that is a very important factor considering the severity of the content covered so that the audience can truly understand the story and all sides involved.
In the beginning of the RAF, I understood what the inolved German youth were thinking and trying to accomplish. I believe that the rise of an educated middle class was probably what sparked these types of movements. Students and youth were more educated and aware of what was going on around the world. Many Americans felt the same way during that time period, but didn't take it to the extremes quite like the RAF did. The Baader-Meinhof group took the feelings of many German youth and students around the world to a whole new level. They were the few who had the courage to actually take action against institutions that they did not believe in.
Although I understand their struggle, I disagree with the lengths they took to cause change. Yes, sometimes force is necessary to make a difference, but like in cases with Ghandi and Martin Luther King, Jr., violence is not always the answer. They made extreme differences in their movements using completely peaceful protest like boycotts and disrupting the flow of their oppressors' daily lives. It seems that the RAF were too quick to resort to violence. Their feelings for their cause got control of them and caused them to start bombings; it was a slippery slope form there. Once they built up the courage to destroy buildings, use guns and rob banks, it was easy for them to start pulling the trigger. I feel that they should have stopped using violence before it got out of control and they might have had a better chance of getting their voice heard in a positive way. By the time the group committed suicide, other RAF members had resorted to kidnappings, taking hostages, and performing executions. These extreme policies were rather counterproductive to the cause and at that point I think that a majority of the public viewed them as terrorists rather than social activists. Even though the film was able to get me to feel sympathy for the group, I think the government and police did what was necessary to deal with the rebels.
I would first like to point out the quality and realism of the film. The actors and producers did a phenomenal job re-creating the events that occurred involving the RAF. I think that is a very important factor considering the severity of the content covered so that the audience can truly understand the story and all sides involved.
In the beginning of the RAF, I understood what the inolved German youth were thinking and trying to accomplish. I believe that the rise of an educated middle class was probably what sparked these types of movements. Students and youth were more educated and aware of what was going on around the world. Many Americans felt the same way during that time period, but didn't take it to the extremes quite like the RAF did. The Baader-Meinhof group took the feelings of many German youth and students around the world to a whole new level. They were the few who had the courage to actually take action against institutions that they did not believe in.
Although I understand their struggle, I disagree with the lengths they took to cause change. Yes, sometimes force is necessary to make a difference, but like in cases with Ghandi and Martin Luther King, Jr., violence is not always the answer. They made extreme differences in their movements using completely peaceful protest like boycotts and disrupting the flow of their oppressors' daily lives. It seems that the RAF were too quick to resort to violence. Their feelings for their cause got control of them and caused them to start bombings; it was a slippery slope form there. Once they built up the courage to destroy buildings, use guns and rob banks, it was easy for them to start pulling the trigger. I feel that they should have stopped using violence before it got out of control and they might have had a better chance of getting their voice heard in a positive way. By the time the group committed suicide, other RAF members had resorted to kidnappings, taking hostages, and performing executions. These extreme policies were rather counterproductive to the cause and at that point I think that a majority of the public viewed them as terrorists rather than social activists. Even though the film was able to get me to feel sympathy for the group, I think the government and police did what was necessary to deal with the rebels.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
"Berlin Calling" Reaction
In the movie "Berlin Calling," Ickarus is an avid drug consumer. He uses
them on a daily basis. The most common drug he uses seems to be
ecstasy, or things similar to it. A majority of the drugs come in pill,
and sometimes powder form. Meth and Cocaine are other similar drugs
that he and his friends take on a regular basis. To him, they are a way
to make his life more exciting. They are originally used for fun and to
enhance the club experiences of him and his followers, but eventually turn in to addictions, as with almost all drugs. Since he is a DJ, and is often performing and attending events in his genre of music, Ickarus is constantly exposed to these drugs and takes them along with his friends and followers. Ickarus probably ends up consuming more than the average partier because he is surrounded in that environment constantly.
Many of the youth are using these drugs because it is the popular thing to do. Many habits and fads are formed in this way. They believe it is a way to enhance their experience with the genre of music that Ickarus is creating. Just like people in the 50's started the rock 'n roll movement, and in the 70's the woodstock group that took drugs like heroine and marijuana to get "in touch" with the music, the new wave of youth is experimenting with drugs like ecstasy. Youth often have the believe that are invincible, and take drugs regardless of their obvious negative affects on the body and mind.
Since I am originally from a small town, and many would also consider St. Cloud a smaller community compared to many big cities like Berlin or New York, many of the standards I grew up with were much more conservative. You saw less of the youth behaving in reckless ways because the community most likely knew about it. In larger cities the younger generation can get together at large events like the ones in the movie and get away from all the the bad stigmas and judgements. The movie was set in Germany, but similar cultures like this can be found all over the world, but mainly in large cities where it will be more acceptable. Where I am from, alcohol is the main "drug" that is consumed among youths as it is more accepted. Germany's youth consuming ecstasy and drugs of the like is not unique, though. That culture has also spread throughout the U.S. and is gaining more popularity.
The work ethics of Ickarus and Alice are of different priority than their earlier generations. With the new age of technology, many people are seeking careers away from industry. I think think that brings people away form pursuing their careers in the industrial field, but people are still focused on seeking a source of income in different ways. Ickarus does this by doing something he loves and is good at it, and the label director knows that. Many of the standards that would be upheld by traditional employees is not necessary for someone in Ickarus's field of work and are overlooked.
A very similar movie to this I find is "Walk the Line", a biography of Johnny Cash. He was a pioneer of a new genre of music and got caught up in drugs just like Ickarus. His parents and other elders did not understand, but the youth following loved it, and he made millions of dollars and became very famous.
The questions you need to answer while viewing:
Many of the youth are using these drugs because it is the popular thing to do. Many habits and fads are formed in this way. They believe it is a way to enhance their experience with the genre of music that Ickarus is creating. Just like people in the 50's started the rock 'n roll movement, and in the 70's the woodstock group that took drugs like heroine and marijuana to get "in touch" with the music, the new wave of youth is experimenting with drugs like ecstasy. Youth often have the believe that are invincible, and take drugs regardless of their obvious negative affects on the body and mind.
Since I am originally from a small town, and many would also consider St. Cloud a smaller community compared to many big cities like Berlin or New York, many of the standards I grew up with were much more conservative. You saw less of the youth behaving in reckless ways because the community most likely knew about it. In larger cities the younger generation can get together at large events like the ones in the movie and get away from all the the bad stigmas and judgements. The movie was set in Germany, but similar cultures like this can be found all over the world, but mainly in large cities where it will be more acceptable. Where I am from, alcohol is the main "drug" that is consumed among youths as it is more accepted. Germany's youth consuming ecstasy and drugs of the like is not unique, though. That culture has also spread throughout the U.S. and is gaining more popularity.
The work ethics of Ickarus and Alice are of different priority than their earlier generations. With the new age of technology, many people are seeking careers away from industry. I think think that brings people away form pursuing their careers in the industrial field, but people are still focused on seeking a source of income in different ways. Ickarus does this by doing something he loves and is good at it, and the label director knows that. Many of the standards that would be upheld by traditional employees is not necessary for someone in Ickarus's field of work and are overlooked.
A very similar movie to this I find is "Walk the Line", a biography of Johnny Cash. He was a pioneer of a new genre of music and got caught up in drugs just like Ickarus. His parents and other elders did not understand, but the youth following loved it, and he made millions of dollars and became very famous.
The questions you need to answer while viewing:
1. What do drugs mean to Ickarus?
2. Why, when, and how are his fans taking drugs, and which drugs do they take?
3. While we can see that his drug habits
get him ill and into a psychosis, and while we witness his relapse and
inability to work successfully, why does the subculture Ickarus is in
focus on drugs?
4. Compare the standards you know from
your home society with the people you see depicted in this movie. Which
are the stark differences and contrasts?
5. Germany is considered a strong
industrial nation the world over. Do you think that the youth culture as
depicted here could change that? How about work ethics of Ickarus and
of Alice, the label director who fires and then re-signs him?
6. Which similar "cult movies" of US origin have you seen, if any?
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
18th Century German Business and Industry (accidentally never posted it and left it in draft mode)
After listening to the presentation on the 18th Century Business and Industry of Germany, it brought to my mind something worth researching. I know that the 3 centuries that we were told to research are clearly posted on the website, but I believe that there is a topic that has been mentioned quite frequently, but not talked about in depth: The Hanseatic League. Hamburg was the German city that my group was assigned with researching and was part of the Hanseatic League (even considers itself today), among many other cities. Even though the Hanse was not created during the first Industrial revolution of Germany and Europe, I think it helped set the stage for European, and especially, German industrialization.
It was believed to have formed around late 12th century when merchants in Northern Europe, the Baltic region, and along rivers in those areas saw the benefits of mutual trade agreements. Germans eventually noticed the great advantages of this trade by sea, and in turn colonists began establishing trade cities that today are some of Germany's largest.
The Hanse League was among one of the first such agreements in human history. Even though its birth happened centuries before the advent of the industrial age, it may have had a direct impact towards the signing of existing free trade agreements like EFTA and NAFTA. This was quite possibly the very beginning of human globalization. Merchants saw the advantages of cooperation and gained the ability to fend off pirates, raiders, high tariffs, and bring home goods that would otherwise be extremely expensive or unattainable altogether. Germany was one of the lasting powers in the Hanseatic League but eventually due to enemies of the pact, multiple wars, and corruption, the League disbanded. Since Germany had grown immensely through this efficient trade system, it didn't want to let that history go and kept the name of the Hanse in several cities like Bremen, Hamburg, and Lubeck, where many historical landmarks are yet preserved and admired. I found an interesting historical fact about Lubeck's refusal to allow Hitler's party to campaign in the city and forced him to speak in a nearby town. Frankly, it pissed him off and the Nazi's took away their privilege of naming themselves a "Free Hanseatic State
Germany's pride in their history and economic growth through the Hanse League may have something to do with the way they have adapted and led the way in many different areas of industrialization. There is a reputation to be lived up to as a forerunner in adaptation and innovation. Their ability to inherit industries and technologies from other advanced nations and improve on them could have stemmed from their past achievements with the Hanse. Despite several devastating wars Germany has since then become an economic power house, boasting one of the top 5 largest economies in the world and remains an icon in technology, Pharmaceuticals, vehicle production, and trade. They essential carry the Euro in today's struggling economy.
I was not aware of the rich history of the Hanse or Germany's involvement. No history class that I have ever taken (that I can remember) covered the Hanseatic League. I think this subject should be, at the least, slightly covered in today's high school European/World history courses here in the U.S. I would think that these landmarks are something worth visiting some day and hope to myself.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanseatic_League
It was believed to have formed around late 12th century when merchants in Northern Europe, the Baltic region, and along rivers in those areas saw the benefits of mutual trade agreements. Germans eventually noticed the great advantages of this trade by sea, and in turn colonists began establishing trade cities that today are some of Germany's largest.
The Hanse League was among one of the first such agreements in human history. Even though its birth happened centuries before the advent of the industrial age, it may have had a direct impact towards the signing of existing free trade agreements like EFTA and NAFTA. This was quite possibly the very beginning of human globalization. Merchants saw the advantages of cooperation and gained the ability to fend off pirates, raiders, high tariffs, and bring home goods that would otherwise be extremely expensive or unattainable altogether. Germany was one of the lasting powers in the Hanseatic League but eventually due to enemies of the pact, multiple wars, and corruption, the League disbanded. Since Germany had grown immensely through this efficient trade system, it didn't want to let that history go and kept the name of the Hanse in several cities like Bremen, Hamburg, and Lubeck, where many historical landmarks are yet preserved and admired. I found an interesting historical fact about Lubeck's refusal to allow Hitler's party to campaign in the city and forced him to speak in a nearby town. Frankly, it pissed him off and the Nazi's took away their privilege of naming themselves a "Free Hanseatic State
Germany's pride in their history and economic growth through the Hanse League may have something to do with the way they have adapted and led the way in many different areas of industrialization. There is a reputation to be lived up to as a forerunner in adaptation and innovation. Their ability to inherit industries and technologies from other advanced nations and improve on them could have stemmed from their past achievements with the Hanse. Despite several devastating wars Germany has since then become an economic power house, boasting one of the top 5 largest economies in the world and remains an icon in technology, Pharmaceuticals, vehicle production, and trade. They essential carry the Euro in today's struggling economy.
I was not aware of the rich history of the Hanse or Germany's involvement. No history class that I have ever taken (that I can remember) covered the Hanseatic League. I think this subject should be, at the least, slightly covered in today's high school European/World history courses here in the U.S. I would think that these landmarks are something worth visiting some day and hope to myself.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanseatic_League
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
All Quiet, CH. 10 Overview, Character Overveiw
Stanislaus Katczinsky
Kat, was the eldest, most experienced member
of the group that is followed in the book "All Quiet on the Western Front.He was
known for having a keen sense of finding food and things that the company
needed. Men, especially Paul, looked up to him. He discovers a box of lobster, a
goose, and other meals that the soldeirs are very grateful for. He often had an
answer for things that the young men asked and guided them in becoming good
soldiers. Kat, to me, was probably the most important character besides Paul. He
was definitely a father figure. When Paul and his 27 classmates made it to their
2nd company after training, he was the one to bring them in to the new unit and
teach them the new ways. I think his death towards the end of the book
symbolized that in war, everything and anyone can be consumed. Pual had never
expected Kat to succumb to the enemy because he had been fighting for so long
and was such a smart soldier. All it took was a random bomb and piece of
shrapnel to end his life, while being carried by Paul. At this poing Paul lost
all hope, or at least what small amount of hope was left. The war had consumed
everyone and everything that Paul knew and completely changed him, and by the
end of the book the war took him, too.
Sunday, October 7, 2012
- The use of the adults in a country to fight a war with the influential young.
- How the human being can withstand the world at its worst.
- An entire generation devastated by the previous' political choices.
- The end result of the war was the cause for the second one.
- Such a widely read book, from high school to college.
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Chapter 10 is both a mix of how terrible the effects of war are and also that sometimes it can still hold some vestiges of humanity. Paul and his comrades find a supply dump, where they acquire all sorts of luxuries including ingredients to make pancakes and fresh produce. It was a nice break from the constant warfare but also very short lived because the enemy found their position and shelled it. This was an important piece to include because it showed that they could still relax and enjoy a more humane living standard no matter what the situation or how short lived it might be. Soon after this Paul ended up going to the hospital with his friend and learned that war was not just momentarily terrible, but it would have long lasting effects of horror afterwards. The multitude of wounds he sees at the hospital makes him realize that his generation will grow up scarred. But it isn't all bad, the hospital also shows the bond between soldiers that is built in the trenches. One of the patients wives shows up and in order for them to have any privacy the other soldiers needed to work together so they could enjoy their time together. In essence chapter 10 shows that although Paul's generation will have long term negative effects from the war, they are still people and will survive through their struggle. This chapter is mostly about mans ability to survive the harshness the world will throw at him and still come out as a human being.
Kantorek is a major character in the story and symbolizes the nationalistic pride that led the nation to war. he is an energetic man who preaches to his students about doing a duty to their country. Because the students are easily mailable it is easy to shape their ideology. Much like a king or emperor would do to promote their regime. The students look up to him at the beginning of the novel, but after they experience war for themselves they despise him. They led them into an inhumane and harsh war where there is constant death and agonizing wounds that will last their generation a life time.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
"My work on the Overveiw of German Parties"
My group is doing our presentation on an overveiw of all the German parties. We started by collecting all of eachother's contact information. At the end of class last week, we all got together to make sure we knew who was in which group. Right away I could tell that the group leader was going to be Kari Anderson. She wasn't the only one, though, that seemed to want to take initiative. Many of the students in our group wanted to make sure that our project was done on time and in an efficient manner. She was the most proactive about getting everyone's contact information to make sure we could all keep in contact. The majority of the work done by our group was individual. Being that it was a large group, we did not have much time where we could all meet up. I don't think that this affected our work in a negative way, as with technology these days you don't really need to be in the same room physically to work together. We sent our information to Kari on google docs, where she and maybe some others put our data together and formed a powerpoint. The information that we collected is fairly basic for each party, but as it explains in our group title, "overveiw," I think that is the point. I focused on looking up information about current political news such as the current leaders and parties challenging each other for the next elections in 2013. I tried to look up very current news on political polls and elections going on in Germany. The most helpful sites that I found were BBC and CNBC.com. As always, wikipedia had plenty of information that was useful. I feel that the party that I would support if I were a german would be the current leading CDU. That parties seems to reflect the veiws of the party that I endorse here in the U.S. I think it is very interesting that Germany follows a Coalition government, which means multiple parties lead the country together. I think that this form of federal government would be the most equal way to govern a country, but not necessarily as efficient as one party. I wonder what the U.S. would be like if we adopted such a type of government. It seems, though, that German politics is kind of a mess with all of the different parties. It would be hard to chose just one party to endorse.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Politics_of_Germany
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Politics_of_Germany
Overveiw of German political parties: what's in the news
Ge110f12DillonRA
Overview of German political parties
In recent news:
Angela Merkel,
chairwoman of the CDU, is the current
Chancellor of Germany. She and the CDU
defeated a SDP-Green coalition that was led by Gerhard Shroeder.
The current coalition includes the CDU/CSU and FDP.
The next elections for chancellor are in September, 2013.
SDP is the current opposition to the leading CDU. The top 3
candidates for chancellor from the SDP include Frank-Walter Steinmeier, SPD Chairman Sigmar Gabriel, and ex-Finance
Minister Peer Steinbrueck.
SDP currently leads
in the elections.
Sources:
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
HAMBURG
Monday, September 10, 2012
Hamburg
- Originally named Treva
- Home to 1.8 million people
- largest GDP in Germany, 50,000 Euros per ca pita
- Produces most of Countries Copper supply
- Port of Hamburg
- Broken into 6 districts, Bergedorf being the largest and least populated
- 1918 became a city state
- great fire in 1842
- Beatles became famous in Hamburg
- 2011 won most environmentally friendly and green capital of Europe
- most bridges in the world
Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hamburg
http://www.hafen-hamburg.de/node/2091
http://www.hafen-hamburg.de/node/2091
http://www.mapsofworld.com/cities/germany/hamburg/tradeindustry.html
http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/253231/Hamburg/16041/The-economy
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Hamburg
1. Hamburg
1.1 Hamburg is located in Northern Germany.
It is about 292 square miles and is home to 1.8 million people. People from
Hamburg can be called, "Hamburgers"1.2 Hamburg has the highest GDP in Germany at
50,000 Euros per capita. It is also a major industrial state and produces a lot
of the countries copper supply. Other major industries of Hamburg include
rubber, tobacco, crude oil and ship building. Hamburg is also known as the Port
of Hamburg which is responsible for more than half of West Germany's foreign
trade. In the year 2011 Hamburg's main trade partners were China, Russia and
Singapore. The major river that runs through Hamburg is the Elbe.1.3 Hamburg is broken into 6 districts with Bergedorf being
the biggest and least populated.
1.5 Before 1871: In 1834 Hamburg was designated
the seat of Roman Catholic Bishopric.
Hamburg was burned down and destroyed by Vikings
in 845. It was again burned down in 1201, 1241 and lastly in 1842 which was
known as the great fire which destroyed most of the inner city. From May 4th to
May 8th in 1842 was the conflagration which destroyed three churches and town
hall. The fire killed 51 people and left 20,000 people homeless. It took hamburg
over 40 years to rebuild
Before
1918: Hamburg adopted the republican constitution and became a city- state. In
the second half of the 19th century the population ofHamburg quadrupled in
size.
Before 1948: During WWII Hamburg had Allied air raids that destroyed more than half of the city. In 1943 a firestorm came from results of the bombings and completely destroyed neighboring cities such as Hammerbrok. This bombing killed around 42,600 civilians.
2. The Beatles became famous from playing in clubs in Hamburg.
In 2011 Hamburg was named Europe's green capital and most environmentally friendly.
Hamburg has more bridges than any other city in the world.
Hamburg was originally names Treva but got its name from the Emperor Charlamagne who ordered the first building on site which was a castle on a rocky terrain.
Before
1918: Hamburg adopted the republican constitution and became a city- state. In
the second half of the 19th century the population ofHamburg quadrupled in
size.Before 1948: During WWII Hamburg had Allied air raids that destroyed more than half of the city. In 1943 a firestorm came from results of the bombings and completely destroyed neighboring cities such as Hammerbrok. This bombing killed around 42,600 civilians.
2. The Beatles became famous from playing in clubs in Hamburg.
In 2011 Hamburg was named Europe's green capital and most environmentally friendly.
Hamburg has more bridges than any other city in the world.
Hamburg was originally names Treva but got its name from the Emperor Charlamagne who ordered the first building on site which was a castle on a rocky terrain.
Fun Fact:
There is a street in Hamburg called, Reeperbahn in the St. Pauli district.
It is described by some as, "die sündige Meile (the sinful
mile)."
3. Resources
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hamburg
http://www.hafen-hamburg.de/node/2091
3. Resources
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hamburg
http://www.hafen-hamburg.de/node/2091
http://www.mapsofworld.com/cities/germany/hamburg/tradeindustry.html
http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/253231/Hamburg/16041/The-economy
http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/253231/Hamburg/16041/The-economy
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