Vienna: From Golden Age to Dark Times

This chapter explores the vibrant cultural and intellectual landscape of pre-World War I Vienna, juxtaposed with the undercurrents of rising nationalism and anti-Semitism. It highlights the transformative period of 'Red Vienna' following World War I, marked by socialist policies aimed at societal improvement, while also detailing the challenges faced by the Jewish community amidst growing oppression. The narrative examines the historical trajectory leading to the Anschluss in 1938, reflecting on the profound impact of Nazi rule and the enduring legacy of Vienna's intellectual diaspora.