Why did Germany fly off the rails, and how could her history have been different? On Thursday, February 20 at the Marion Music Hall (164 Front Street) at 7:00 pm, Dr. Kirtland Mead will explore this provocative question. In this centennial year of World War I, any student of European or world history must ask why Germany – which had been so civilized and orderly – became unstable around 1900 and led Europe into the two world wars.
During his presentation, Dr. Mead will ‘unpack’ German history, beginning with the Roman Empire, proceeding through the key medieval and early modern centuries, and culminating in the 19th century leading up to 1914. After identifying the key developments and decision points and their consequences, he will draw lessons for the challenges of achieving political development and stability today outside the developed West. Mead’s insights are based on an academic, professional, and personal involvement with Germany extending back to the 1960s.
This presentation (originally scheduled for February 13) is co-sponsored by the Sippican Historical Society and the Elizabeth Taber Library, and is offered to the public free of charge. No reservations are necessary. For more information, contact info@sipppicanhistoricalsociety.org or call 508-748-1116.