The Documentary Podcast Defeated: How ordinary Germans experienced the end of World War Two
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Apr 13, 2025 Hans Rosenthal, a Holocaust survivor turned TV quiz show host, and Melitta Maschmann, a former Nazi youth leader, share their profound insights on post-WWII Germany. They discuss the emotional chaos faced by ordinary Germans in the wake of surrender, contrasting feelings of relief and despair. Personal stories reveal the struggle of survival, moral complexities, and the fight for identity amidst the ruins of a fallen regime. Their reflections provoke questions about guilt and the journey toward forgiveness in a transformed society.
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Hans Rosenthal's Hiding
- Frau Schönebeck hid Hans Rosenthal, a young Jewish man, in her garden house.
- Despite her son's initial objections, she continued to protect Hans, ultimately saving his life.
Melitta's Nazi Enthusiasm
- Melitta Maschmann, as a 15-year-old girl, was captivated by a Nazi torchlight parade.
- She desperately wanted to join the National Socialist movement, desiring the sense of community they promoted.
Lore Erich's Escape
- Lore Erich fled with her children and parents from East Prussia due to the approaching Red Army.
- Her father died from the extreme cold, and she faced perilous journey across a frozen lagoon.