When the Firewall Cracked: Historical Lecture at the Leisewitzhaus Braunschweig
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When the Firewall Cracked: Braunschweig's Path to Political Radicalization
How could a bourgeois-national socialist coalition come to power in Braunschweig starting in 1930 – and what were the consequences of this political alliance for democracy, the rule of law, and civil society? The lecture at the Leisewitzhaus addresses a decisive section of regional contemporary history and connects historical analysis with the question of what lessons can be drawn for the present.
A Look at Braunschweig from 1930 to 1932
In September 1930, a bourgeois-national socialist coalition replaced the social democratic government in the state of Braunschweig. This resulted in a National Socialist taking over the Ministry of the Interior and Education. The lecture outlines how the National Socialists systematically used their participation in government to weaken institutions of the rule of law and democracy and to infiltrate civil society.
Historical Expertise and Regional Perspective
Prof. Dr. Klaus Meyer from the Ivey Business School at the University of Western Ontario examines the political mechanisms behind this development. The focus is on the increasing dominance of the National Socialists, the mistakes of other parties, and the question of how democratic institutions came under pressure in an unstable political order. The event is designed as an expert lecture followed by a discussion, aimed at visitors interested in history, politics, and society.
Lecture, Panel, and Musical Accompaniment
Following the lecture, there will be a panel featuring Prof. Dr. Klaus Meyer, Armin Maus as moderator, and Rifat Fersahoglu-Weber, Chair of the AWO District Leadership Braunschweig. The evening will be accompanied by Lukas Lattau, Regional Cantor of St. Aegidien Braunschweig, at the piano. This creates an event experience that combines historical context, audience discussion, and a special atmosphere at the Leisewitzhaus.
An Evening with Relevance for the Present
The event connects regional history with democratic education. It highlights how political alliances are formed, how institutions are gradually changed, and what responsibility parties and society bear in times of increasing radicalization. In the context of the event planning of the Landesmuseum Hinter Aegidien, the focus is not only on the past but also on the target group outreach to an interested public.
Conclusion
Visitors can expect an informative and discussion-rich evening about Braunschweig's political development between 1930 and 1932. The lecture opens up historical contexts, creates space for questions, and invites reflection on the stability of democratic structures. Admission is free – a great opportunity to experience history on-site and follow the discussion live at the Leisewitzhaus.
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