Out of the Darkness: The Germans, 1942-2022

Amazingly researched and equally, amazingly written. Fascinating from start to finish. This book is astoundingly important in understanding Germany’s transformation from evil to respected community member. It’s now one of my all-time favorite reads.

For a long time, 2nd and 3rd generation German emigres in the Anglophone world have been asking questions that nearly seemed unanswerable. With a verve that few could muster, historian Frank Trentmann provides light by opening doors to many formerly closed closets in the recesses of our parents' and grandparents' minds. His latest work, “Out of Darkness: The Germans, 1942-2022”, magisterially traverses eight decades of Germany’s tumultuous journey and with it, uncovers the thinking of our and our friends' families. In nearly 800 pages, Trentmann asks and answers our questions as he meticulously examines how Germany emerged from the abyss of totalitarianism and genocide to become a dominant force within the European Union.The book deftly navigates through pivotal moments, revealing the multifaceted transformation of Germany. Here are the key insights:Broad Support for Nazism: Trentmann sheds light on the uncomfortable truth that the Nazis enjoyed widespread support, even among ordinary German citizens. This support waned during the disastrous years after 1942, as the horrors of mass murder became evident.Post-War Challenges: The aftermath of World War II presented immense challenges – homelessness, starvation, and the plight of millions of German refugees expelled from former provinces and Eastern Europe. Amid this chaos, Germany grappled with collective guilt and the need for moral and material regeneration.Adenauer’s Bold Move: The author highlights Konrad Adenauer’s audacious decision to push through massive reparations to Israel and Jewish refugees. While effective in restoring Germany’s global standing, it also absolved the country from direct war reparations.Economic Miracle and Hypocrisy: Trentmann delves into the economic miracle of the 1950s and ‘60s, exploring how hard work, organization, and thrift contributed to Germany’s resurgence. He also examines how younger generations confronted their parents’ wartime hypocrisy.East Germany’s Collapse: The semi-dystopia of East Germany and its eventual collapse paved the way for reunification. Trentmann dissects the factors that led to Germany’s economic dominance within a united nation.In a thoughtful epilogue, the author acknowledges the resilience of the German people but refrains from predicting the outcome of current challenges, including rising jingoistic and anti-democratic movements, Nonetheless, Trentmann demonstrates how asking the right questions at the right time helps us all understand both ourselves as Germans, native or otherwise. Bravo, Sir.

Well written and informative.

This had to be returned because it arrived in a loose paper envelope, unsuitable for pisting a paoerback book. It had been intended as a present, but a corner of the cover was bent, making it look read. There was also something slightly odd about the book binding, as if it was a publisher's second. Larger pages and a thinner book would have been a better choice. The content looked fascinating, though.

Thoughtful, well-written and deeply illuminating. Viewing the tiles that make up this remarkable mosaic is as interesting as the mosaic itself, seen from afar.