The Documentary Podcast
Defeated: How ordinary Germans experienced the end of World War Two
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.
49:27
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Quick takeaways
- The unconditional surrender on May 8, 1945, marked a chaotic and heartbreaking transition for ordinary Germans grappling with their nation's past atrocities.
- Personal accounts from six individuals reveal the emotional struggles and moral complexities faced by Germans during the turbulent aftermath of World War II.
Deep dives
The Surrender and Its Aftermath
The unconditional surrender of Germany on May 8, 1945, marked the end of World War II for Europe, leading to celebrations in the Allied countries. However, for the Germans, especially those who had survived Nazi rule, this day ushered in a period of chaos and heartbreak. Many Germans were grappling with the repercussions of the war, realizing that their nation had committed terrible atrocities during its reign. The aftermath saw a surge of ethnic Germans fleeing westward from the advancing Soviet forces, adding to the turmoil of the time.
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