I am German and in my 50ies, and I was raised to be very conscious of our not-so memorable past (1st and 2nd world war, the Nazi era), so seeing flags used to give me (unpleasant) chills. When people started showing flags during the soccer world championship in 2006, I was taken aback a little at first, but then it turned out that we Germans really managed to show a little pride for our country in a positive way, which I really loved. I personally feel lucky to be able to live here and - yes - I am a little proud.
I think you captured the essence of German patriotism exceptionally well! I have lived abroad and have a very international friend groups, and, just like Yvonne, I only started being proud in some sense after getting positive outside reactions. The thing with patriotism and pride like in the US (or Central American countries, where I lived and hence that's a good point of reference) feels just foreign to me; as a German I tend to be proud of our country’s achievements, and the values our society stands for today rather than simply being proud of the fact that my passport is German. Also I think as a German one always carries multiple identities with oneself, I am a proud European as much as being happy to be German and Bavarian (the order is not deliberate in this case and changes depending on the situation :D)
The first verse of the German hymn ist not forbidden. Our constitution states that our official hymn is the 3rd verse, but the first two are not forbidden.
At my calmest mornings, I watch your videos, they are really informative and entertaining. And yes, I've noticed in Germany patriotism is not really a huge thing, however where I come from (Pakistan), we used to have national anthem even before watching a movie in the cinema for instance. However, I find it much much better here in Germany for the concept of patriotism, I mean it should be there, but not to a level where it gets annoying you know. (In Saxony where I live, patriotism is a bit more intense comparing to Bavaria, where I lived before) Germany is indeed a beautiful and an amazing country and Germans should definitely be proud of what they've accomplished as a country, but we all must remember, that we all are born on earth and respect for that should come first , we all are humans first, different colors and different nations shouldn't separate us in anyway, love should be spread all over. Okay that's enough of a speech from my side :D.
It's also not exactly a new concept that people's families from different ethnic backgrounds sometimes have lived in Germany for two or three generations
In Europe we don't ''expose'' our flags ''American'' style😀....because we know very well in wich country we are..😀😀😀😀...we are '' proud'' when are sports events..( special football..wich sometimes degenerate..see the UK hooligans )....u
Proud of my country? Not in the sense that I think Germans are better people than others. But I am proud of what was achieved in Germany after the war. I am proud of Article 1 of the Basic Law. I am proud of the free and peaceful society that our forefathers set up in spite of all the problems. I am proud of our social system (despite all the problems), a system in which even the weaker can live. I am proud of our landscape, which is still beautiful after hundreds of years of cultivation. And many things more. But I am not proud of something like "history", which is simply too interwoven with the history of others. There is no German history that does not include the history of many other nations. Especially since the area "Germany" has been settled since time immemorial, but the "nation" has not existed historically that long. People who claim the history of their country now are actually saying that they prefer the past to the present.
A few corrections regarding the anthem: There is a difference between the original piece of music - the "Deutschlandlied" or "Lied der Deutschen" - and the national anthem. Before the reunification, it was never clearly stated, and just common use to sing only the 3rd verse of the Deutschlandlied... but since 1991, it was established the the official national anthem of the Federal Republic of Germany consists of the 3rd verse of the "Deutschlandlied", only and exclusively. So the other two verses are not used when our anthem is needed/wanted... because they are not part of the anthem. But on the other hand, using these verses is not forbidden. Just singing them might not be socially accepted generally, and using them when the national anthem is required would most certainly result in some sort of repercussions... but there are no legal consequences for singing it. And in a similar way: the national anthem version that was used under the Nazi regime - only the first verse of the Deutschlandlied, directly followed by the "Horst Wessel Lied", _is_ legally forbidden, under the rules that prohibit the usage of nationalsocialist symbols.
I’m from Dominican Republic 🇩🇴 now leaving in Germany, before in the UK. For me is the same patriotism came across very vividly when leaving abroad even coming from proud countries like me. It’s good to now that German’s don’t need to me reaffirming about themselves, we will keep admiring them from inside and outside the country. You really are a great country with incredible people.
The whole idea of patriotism isn’t different from pride. Patriotism isn’t expressed in flags or anthem, or yelling it out in public. It’s about responding the call of your country. It’s about preserving the culture. Developing it further. Picking it from the ashes. I don’t many other countries did that like Germans. They have picked the country from the ground and made it into what it is today. I am not German and I admire them for that.
As a German, I still like the saying: "Dummheit und Stolz wachsen auf einem Holz (Stupidity and pride grow on a tree)!" Americans often raise this topic here on RUclips, and I find it interesting to ask why this is so; the reference to the Nazi era is correct, but falls far short of the mark: in France and England, for example, you don't see nearly as many flags as in America. I suspect that almost all states (residents) in America historically bear a double burden: - On the one hand, today's majorities were originally conquerors, occupiers, a numerical minority compared to the original population; even at this time, the resulting diaspora mentality was identity-forming; - secondly, later, when they had pushed the original population into a minority, they liberated themselves from their own European rulers (England, Spain, France) with liberation wars: So they don't live - like almost all Europeans - on original territory and have fought for their states with a lot of violence; the knowledge of this and the suppression of the history of violence leads to this, from a European point of view, excessive patriotism and nationalism!
When I look at the youth in Germany I can say the stupidity grows indeed on trees. They are not proud, just dumb and mainly mentally sick. Being proud is actually being healthy. As a psychotherapist and clinical psychologist I can attest to that.
Guys, let's face it. Germany has great history, famous people in a lot of fields and hopefully a bright future, yet it's kind of forbidden to be a patriot. For example, the anthem. It's not Germany above all others, it's german unity above personal reasons. Grüße aus München
Hm, so, I'm German and also live here. I've also lived in South Africa as a child for some years, so I'm glad to have experienced at least one totally different culture before (and loved it down there!). I can say, I'm grateful for many of the benefits of living in Germany, especially as I have some health issues and our country is very supportive of people who need help. In other countries in the world, I might already be living in the streets. Not so here. Not everything is perfect here, but essentially Germany is a good place to live and thus, one could (and maybe should) be proud of it. However, because of our history, I always feel like there's a negative connotation to showing patriotism here (outside of the sports events you mentioned). Personally, I would never add a patch of the German flag to my patch-covered backpack, because I'd be afraid, others might think I'm a neo-nazi. Walk past a group of punks in the city, and you might get in trouble for that! Perhaps an extreme example, but I've known of someone this has happened to. In my neighborhood, there's a family who have the German flag raised in their garden all year, and while they might be totally normal people, this is always viewd with suspicion. It shouldn't be that way, because not everyone who is proud of our country nowadays, has ANY ideology from the disgusting past, and I know that! Yet, even I feel a little weirded out when I walk past that garden and see our flag there. It almost feels uncomfortable. And this reflects in politics as well. I think, many of the decisions (good and bad) nowadays are made based on the fear of Germany being seen in the wrong light again. It is, as though we just can't shake off the past and still cower guiltily in its shadow, even though the current generations have nothing to do with it anymore. Other countries, who have also commited terrible crimes (see the U.S. with the Native Americans for example) don't do that. It's a good thing not to forget and to learn from the past, but it's also sad, how it can still almost make you feel ashamed to be a German and to express any kind of patriotism without having this "guilty" aftertaste.
Thank you for doing this video! I had this exact question and was wondering why it’s so different in Germany as compared to other countries. Your video was great
The wall came down on my Birthday Nov 9th 1989 and I was still in Germany on that day. I've always celebrated this day since for what was a momentous day, not the day that happen in 1938. I will turn 59 and the Wall coming down at 33 and I'm sorry but that won't be taken from me or history. Love your channel.
"Deutschland über alles" is often misunderstood. It was not meant like Germany above other contries, but Germany above local interests of German states and mini-states like Prussia, Bavaria, Wuerttemberg, Baden, Westphalia, Saxony and literally 300 others.
These were already united by the time the music was inaugurated as national anthem. And yes, you are right that this was what "Deutschland über alles" originally meant. Waaay back. After that it got adopted in the wrong hands, literally. It's our responsibility not to carry it waaaay forward, you know?
@@fannychristozova8158 by the time it was written it was not,,, deutschland über alles can also mean putting the interests of the PEOPLE of germany first, not those of military and financial aristocracy
@@miraniseini2931But that's how it was intended. Languages develop over time and the text was a product of nationalism in a world before 1871 when Germany was united.
9:08 The official celebration of the "Tag der Deutschen Einheit" has mostly taken place in the state capital of that country which at the time was chair of the Bundesrat. Last year, for example in Halle/Saale (Saxony-Anhalt) this year ist planned for Erfurt (Thuringia). By the way, it took place in Düsseldorf in 1995. Sure, many events happens in Berlin but also in many cities across Germany.
I think that Germans should be proud of their nationality and for whom they are now! Because they are one of the most democratic, liberal and well functioning societies in the world! Of course they shouldn't ever forget the lessons of the second world war and the Holocaust, but as I'm aware, the Germans are very careful to always remember and teach the younger generations why those events shouldn't ever be allowed to happen again! But be very proud of whom you are now, of what you achieved, because I think it will bind your society better! Why shouldn't you be proud, but Russia, despite having the moral high ground then, and which today is massacring innocent civilians in a neighboring sovereign state, should be entitled to be exuberant, as they are, about patriotism!
Great Video. I approve the whole message 😀. Out of topic: I was there in düsseldorf last week and was looking at the roads for Jen and Ivan to show up accidently😁.. Alt bier ist wirklich toll.. Cheers 🍻
German National Anthem: 1) The lyrics are called "Das Lied der Deutschen" (The Song of the Germans) written by Hoffmann von Fallersleben in 1841. Its first verse is NOT forbidden! The simple fact is that only the third verse is part of the national anthem which was decided after the reunification in1990 by then Bundespräsident Richard von Weizsäcker and Bundeskanzler Helmut Kohl. This followed an earlier and similar decision from 1952 by Bundespräsident Theodor Heuss and Bundeskanzler Konrad Adenauer that only the third verse may be sung at official events. Therefore it would not be illegal to sing all three verses in public. I couldn't advise it, though, because strange looks, lifted eybrows and intensive eyerolls would be the minimum reaction you should expect. 2) The national anthem of Germany today consists of the third verse of the Lied der Deutschen sung to the tune of the Austrian "Kaiserhymne" (Hymn to the Emperor) by Joseph Haydn. Often, like during the official reception of foreign state leaders, just the melody is played.
Great approach to the topic! I think, next time when someone asks if I’m proud to be German, I’ll say, “define pride, because it might be different from how I define Stolz.” 😃
i was born in East Germany when it still was behind the iron curtain and i was just 10 years old when the Berlin wall fell and i am proud that we achieved a mostly peaceful revolution and the reunification. And yes i am aware that factors outside of our control helped that the events didn't end in a massacre. Still i think we as a people achieved something there. And yes i feel proud for our german constitution especially when i see what happens in the US currently with the surpreme court going haywire.
Hello - great and interesting video. I never thought about being proud to be german or proud of Germany... You are right, I am proud to have raised and 49 years lived in Essen/Ruhrgebiet... Proud of "Kohle und Stahl", of the change after closing the mines... And now I see how proud the "Friesen" are to be "independent Friesen".... ....... ...... ...... And I guess, it fits us well, not to be tooo proud😉
I think you did a great job, explaining this topic. Being born and raised in germany i went through an education system that was rather biased when it came to "german history". The achievments were not exactly downplayed but the ugly face was way more emphasized during history, geography, or even german classes. For me, back then it was hard to understand how people could be proud of their nation when there in reality is a lot to be ashamed for. And as always, every nations history has some dark spots on its "shining armour" one could emphasize. I remember back in 2006 how weirf it at first felt, seeing all these german flags waving from houses, cars, people... It was a completely new sensation to me. Still i think it was about time for us germans to become more easy on ourselves and our country. By the way: thanks for mentioning the franconian part of bavaria. Being from Nuremberg, my heart just smiled a little. 😁
Thank your for addressing this topic so eloquently. I think it's ok to be proud of your country but don't find it necessary to constantly advertise it as we do here in the US. It's almost as if we have to prove the point to ourselves on a minute by minute basis. As though we are insecure. It can be quite embarrassing. I'm glad to know that Germans are just comfortable being German. It's even difficult to find the German flag on your national air carrier Lufthansa aircraft!
Just like Yvonne mentioned, I never even thought about it, have never been focused on political or social topics, for me only science & technology was on my agenda. In other words I really ignored that fact that I was German and with our very dark history, I always felt more like a European. Spending some time in the US I was surprised that they had much more respect for my country that I ever had. Now that I am even older and interested in political and social aspects of our societies, I suddenly learn to value being German and part of the system and am happy to contribute to that as well as enjoying its advantages and seeing other people in existential safety and comfort who otherwise would never be able to survive. Since I seem to appear relatively serious and professional, while deep inside I am just very different, I always get a kick out of breaking the stereotype of the German who has no humor and start telling something with a serious beginning and then branch off in totally ridiculous direction while keeping a straight face and waiting for the first person to crack up and cause a chain reaction, breaking the ice. I don't care if I joke about myself or Germans, which have plenty of potential for jokes, I just want to make people laugh, else nobody will join my funeral anyway. I have no respect for anyone being proud of something he didn't achieve, like growing up somewhere or being born into a wealthy family or anything that would make you feel superior over others. It shows the lack of respect, understanding and questioning everything and being social, empathic and loving to others. In other words only very uneducated or never in any way evolved "traditional" people can come up with that concept. Most nationalistic tendencies I find just as scary as these people who are proud to even exist.
The first verse is not forbidden. It's just not part of the anthem. There is a BVG sentence from 1990 putting the whole song under artistic freedom. To understand this first verse you need to understand, that when it was written, there was no unified Germany. A Germany, as we know it today, was a dream and a wish. The first verse tried to convey that emotion: We'd be happier than ever, had we Germany. The Nazis, of course, took the whole song and made it part of their ideology. That is why we can't have nice things, people will use them and reinterpret them.
Stating in Germany that you are "proud to be German" will likely put you to the far right corner of the political spectrum. So we avoid saying these things out loud at all costs. Showing our flag is not so common (except for sport events) and is not necessary, we usually know where we are and how the flag looks like (and, it doesn't look as cool as all the others with it's dark and dull colors). But we all know what a positive reputation we have in the world. We can travel to more country's without a visa than anyone else. People love the Idea of a stable government and not changing government every few years or even months. Yes, we do a lot of things right and that gives us all a great feeling. But "Patriotism" like it's celebrated in the US is really strange to us. We learned our lessons, after two world wars with patriotism in overdrive. So yes, it is great to be a German.
Einigkeit und Recht und Freiheit! I have researched myself a lot on this topic throughout recent years, and for two major reasons which are equally important and equally personal to me - my fascination with history (But also my dedication to always read it correctly), and then my love for Germany. You see, it might look a bit weird, since I've graduated in the field of English studies (yes, I'm pretty good in both American and British history, as well as current affairs), and I finished first in my French class in high school. And yet, I have since long ago chosen and eyed Germany, because this is a country where anyone's actions and behavior gets literally mirrored for what they are. If I do something wrong, I will see about it and I'll feel it, if the person next to me does something wrong, I'll be even more sure of that. If I approach someone nicely,they will approach me twice as nice. I miss so much this mirror-like mindset here in my home country. I was raised this way and also my aunt is from Halle, so as a child I literally grew up into German clothes. (and I might have been the first child in Bulgaria to have After Eight sweets 😋) Jen, I can relate to some extend about what you say the Guatemala national pride sounds and feels like. All of this "Ooh I'm proud,we have a deep and beautiful culture, ancient history, ooh!" (firm truth) Yep 😉, fathers sitting by the TV, bragging just like that in every second or third household here. By the way, I did a curiosity test for national anthems around the world, Guatemala's is very beautiful! And about the German one, it wasn't until started learning the language and culture that I realized why exactly was I seeing graffiti like "Bulgaria above all""... once I learned where it comes from, I learned a lot more about how to see symbols and read people. This episode is wonderful, girls! Don't hesitate to speak such topics, I think it's a wonderful job!
Thanks so much for sharing your stories Fanny! For us is equally interesting to read your experiences and opinion. And we also agree, having context for understanding things in life is so important. Wow look at you being all good in French 😀
@@simplegermany Oui, ma langue première, c'était le français. Et j'en suis fière avec mes années les meilleures. I still work with some French on my current job, but I'm really a lot more concentrated on German right now.. even while I reply to you now I have my notebook with words from today's things I've watched and gathered... So my experience is also my deeper observation. Well, you know me already, and I have some ideas, some plans, some certain ventures I have in mind. I have chosen Germany long ago for that, and I have chosen Düsseldorf about three years ago for the first time, but then I had some "meh" about that, then other things also had to change, so I was left alone with wondering and/or having to decide.. I did so, and I told you right away. 😉
@@simplegermany Omg please don't, I'm so scared.. I'm all over your website constantly and it's helped me a lot!! But I'm still scared and careful. 😱 But I know I'll make it.
Of course you’ll make it!! Don’t be scared, it’s a new exciting adventure for you! Of course there will be bumps along the way, but you’ll go over them smooothly 😅🙃
I agree. Today there are less people who are aware, but the ideas on Germanic Woman, Germanic Literature, Germanic Tradition, were things that were heavily pushed by that leader with the strange mustache. It actually makes sense to not make patriotism and ethnocentrism such a dominating value in how we see ourselves and others. Some groups in America also like to use the phrase Patriot to call each other this. I suspect that we will have less problems, if we treat all ethnicities/nations, and different types of minorities in our communities better.
Die zentrale (i.e. größte) Feier zum Tag Der Deutschen Einheit am 3.Oktober findet stets in dem Bundesland statt, das in dem betreffenden Jahr den Vorsitz im Bundesrat innehält.
German flag printed things you will probably find at the airport in the souvenir shop with mugs, shot glasses, caps or fridge magnets boasting it, but otherwise I haven't seen it much. Regarding the Re-unification day I once read that a big celebration is held in different cities every year, so lots of cities or state capitals get their turn for the big celebration. Oh and in terms of pride, not sure whether I am proud, as you already said I did not choose to be born in Germany, that's where I was born where I grew up, the values learned etc. But I must say it is kind of 'wow' that over the course of history, all the dark chapters in it the country always managed to get up on its feet again, being left to completely self governed again without causing much of a big stir and how the whole economy went flourishing (with help of all the foreign guest workers in the 50's) to be a respected nation again
I think it's fine for anybody to show pride, a flag, or whatever. I am an American, and I really hated seeing so many flags after 9/11. I mean, I'm proud of my country, and I love America, but that was TOO MUCH. However, I got used to it, and I understand that it was a way for the regular people to show support for the military fighting abroad, or the firefighters and police who died on 9/11. Over the years, I don't cringe anymore. And I am happy that Germans are more proud of their country too, during sports and other big events. :) I think it's okay if it doesn't go too far. (What is "too far"? I don't know. Obviously, WWII was too far, but what was the tipping point?)
Careful wirth that statement about the first verse of our German anthem. It’s clearly NOT forbidden, it’s just not used - due to history. You can walk around in public and sing it as loud as you want. Of course rather no one would do it.
@@Heavenfound It should make you cry, it’s a beautiful verse about loving your home country, it has nothing to do with superiority. It was sung long before Captain Austria of Braunau.
Weirdly I would almost say I am proud not to be proud about "being a German". There has always been some sense of simpleminded/ almost mindless loyalty to me when it comes to patriotism like some I have experienced in the States. I want to be proud of my country, though - hence I am not holding back with criticism. 🤣 It's all in the hopes of improving when improvement is needed. And I surely am an all-out advocate for German bread!!!
I think within Germany itself it is not really a big thing to think about being pride about the country etc. But when I was on vacation in South Korea and people asked me where I'm from I have to say I felt a bit proud to say that I'm from Germany. At least I had a good feeling to say it. I think it has to do with the good reputation Germany generally has.
Jen and Yvonne, did you guys know that Stuttgart is having a big Latin America festival and celebration this weekend? If you guys feel interested in going, it would fun to meet up and buy you some beers (or a coffee/or whatever you drink)... let me know if you're up for it!
Oh we did not know about the festival. We won’t be able to join this time around! Thanks for your kind offer for beers (of course 😄). Hopefully next time 😉
I´m proud to be German /Kölner😂. But in the normal life you don´t think about it. And after looking of many expat videos, I see my country with some new fews. It´s right that most of the foreigner love Germany for the things that normal for us!
I'm a little surprised how you phrased your summary of "Deutschland. Deutschland über alles". While the Nazis definitely misused the "Lied der Deutschen" and other cultural artifacts for their propaganda, its author, August Heinrich Hoffmann von Fallersleben, had had a more positive intention with it. At the time he wrote that poem, Germany wasn't united yet. So his line "Germany, Germany above all" was supposed to carry the meaning of hundreds of tiny German states uniting into something greater that would lead the Germans into a more liberal and democratic future.
just FYI: It's a myth that the first verse of the german national anthem is forbidden. In 1952 Chancellor Adenauer and President Heuss declared the "Deutschlandlied" (Song of the Germans) as the german national anthem. This includes all 3 verses. However it was decided that only the 3rd verse will be sung during official occasions. In March 1990, the Federal Constitutional Court (Bundesverfassungsgericht) ruled that the entire song - including verses one and two - may be interpreted under the protection of artistic freedom. However, only the third stanza is protected under criminal law. So if you want to have a go at the the Song and give it new lyrics you can do so but be careful to play around with only the first 2 verses or else you might go to prison :-) If you sing all 3 verses, you are theoretically singing the "Deutschlandlied" but not the national anthem. If you want to sing the anthem, just sing the 3rd verse.
Yes, exactly. You follow the course of decisions very correctly. I only don't understand, after all facts with dates, how is the first verse not forbidden, but it is practically cut out at all occasions, but then it's not forbidden? And it's called "Das Lied der Deutschen".
@@fannychristozova8158 Yes, you are absolutely right. The official name is "Das Lied der Deutschen" but ""Deutschlandlied" is a commonly used name for that song. First: Why should the first verse be banned? Because of the "Germany above everything" part? Because of a short (and cruel) period in Germany's history? When Fallersleben wrote the text in 1841, nobody could have imagined what would happen about 100 years later. At that time there was no Germany in the sense of a single country, but there were only different principalities and kingdoms. So the intent of the first verse is not to say that Germany is better/bigger/whatever than other countries and should therefore considered superior. It should only clarify that a united Germany is to be regarded highly and preferred over many small principalities and kingdoms. And this statement was more relevant than ever after the end of the Second World War with the division of Germany into west and east Germany. If the song actually aimed to glorify the greatness of Germany over other countries (and was written sometime in the 1930s/1940s) then yes, I can understand a ban on the lyrics/song. And second: singing only one verse of the anthem happens in other countries as well. For example, the US national anthem has 4 verses and only the first one is sung. And it probably happens in other countries too. Why it was decided to only sing the 3rd verse? I don't know, i can only guess. Maybe it was considered offensive in light of recent german history. And because unity, justice and freedom are good things they decided to use only the 3rd verse. The 2nd verse is more or less a party song in my opinion. Singing about women, wine and music might not be the best suited text for an anthem :D
I agree entirely with the facts of what you share on the subject! I read it and I thank you!! Speaking of a harsh national anthem, have you heard the Frenchmen's Marseillaise? 😅 Now, the decision about third verse for the Germany national anthem, I think is only right.
During I listen this video I remembered the chance of the currency too Euro. I really was a little bit disappointed that the symbolic of my favorid coin the 50 Pfennig is gone. The woman who build germany again after the WWII, planted the oak.
I guess, I just don't really think of things that are good or not so good about Germany in terms of "Germany". It's more like "here at the national level", since I can't pin my identity solely on Germany, since I identify on the geographic/cultural level as many things. I'm from the black forest, I'm a Badener, a Baden-Württemberger, a EU citizen, I identify with my hometown, with the town I live in right now and with the counties these towns are located in. There just isn't so much space left for the Germany thing to be this huge aspect of my identity and have this great sense of patriotism, since my affiliations are already spread over so many layers.
Ich persönlich bin mehr stolz Bayer zu sein als Deutscher, denn die deutsche Geschichte erinnert mich an n@zis, WW2, einem dummen Kaiser, ein Kaiserreich, wo Preußen das Sagen hatte und an einen Bismarck, der mit Preußen, Bayern unterdrückt hat. Es gab natürlich auch gute Sachen aber, das was ich aufgezählt habe, hat eine größere Bedeutung für mich als andere Sachen
Patriotism is dangerous! General and frequently practiced "innocent" patriotism makes the field fertile in which the seeds of a determined fascist sprout quickly and easily. When I was young, the question was often discussed: how could the Third Reich happen in a cultural nation like Germany? Today you can see live how it happens in the States. Of course, in Germany there is much greater pride in the region. Germany hasn't existed for very long; the individual regions of Germany were their own countries until not so long ago (e.g. Bavaria existed as independed country for 1316 years before it joined the German Empire in 1871, it has its own national constitution - which ist suspended/overruled for the time Bavaria is part of the Federal Republic - and its own national anthem). In many regions, people have not forgotten the stories when ancestors fought against other now german regions not so long ago. While the political class still thinks the reunification ist something to celebrate, the population in the former east AND west really don't think there's much to be partied about. People in the east were raided by capitalist cockroaches and in the west had to pay for it all without ever having been asked nor having had any say.
Is the first verse of the Deutschlandlied now forbidden? Clear answer: no. The Federal Constitutional Court had in a verdict decided in March 1990 that the whole song - including one and two - may be interpreted under the protection of artistic freedom.
Tbh, there was a hidden law/rule in GER that you where not allowed to be proud of German culture and historical things at all. Most of the time an "over patriotism behavior", like flags at home or even singing the anthem for fun in the mall :),had brought you pretty quick in connection to the Nazi's.
Meckern is indeed a national sport :) Anyway, a video which comes to my mind is this, where the point Is made that treating patriotism as a taboo topic means leaving it to the far right (and Franziska knows what she's talking about): ruclips.net/video/SPJelf-n-j8/видео.html
Thank you for your new and awesome video! As a Ukrainian living now in Germany due to the war I’m 100% sure Germans have a lot of reasons to be proud of their wonderful country. I sincerely appreciate everything your government and you people have been doing for us and want to say a huge thank you to everyone.
Hey Julia, thank you so much for your kind words! Welcome to Germany! We hope you can settle as smoothly as possible, even though coming here was not really by choice. We truly hope that bureaucracy does not hinder you too much! All the best to you! 😊
The English people, who come for holiday to Turkey, have something interesting. When there's a pool game for example and the chief of entertainment team is asking everyone, where they come from. Every foreigner say their country but the English people say their city! That's really interesting...
@@sisuguillam5109 Unfortunately not yet. But I am working on traveling this summer and hope to settle between Hamburg and Niedersachsen. I am preparing myself for an arbeitssuchend visa .wish me luck and you?
@@mahmoudelsherif4981 that is such a lovely area! With Denmark and Poland close by (and the Netherlands not to far of) you have so much to see and do. I am from Hessen - which I can recommend too. We've got plenty of castles and pretty little towns!
Hey, I asked a question under the recent bicycle in Germany video you did. I’ll appreciate if you can answer me. The question is, as an international student, how can I have a license that will enable me to drive electric bike with more than 250watt rating
...but it's 2022 and you know how to use the internet, right?.. you navigated to this site, at least twice. Why do you speak so harshly to them, to demand they do research for you, when you can do a search and find the answer yourself? 🙄...It took me less than 5 minutes to find the answer and process required to license, what i just learned is called a mokick in Germany.
@@suzannes5888 hey sorry if the tone comes out as been rude, I didn’t intend on such, and regarding finding the answers myself, I actually did find it before asking. Probably google geo-location of a thing is what made the article not available for me in my country… Jen and Yvonne, I’m sorry if my question came out as being rude….
No worries! We just hope you have found our answer under your original comment? In short: you will need a German moped license to drive such a fast bike. So you either apply for it or not get such a fast bike 😊
The symbols and symbolism of German nationality have been exaggerated, misused and outright "tainted" by the nazis. Showing of flags and singing the national anthem were either associated with extreme right wing ideology or restricted to few and solemn occasions. The national anthem is appropiate for funerals rather than exuberant festivities. 2006 was the first time ever Germans would do flag waiving without being reminded of their cruel history.
Patriotism is often a problem for Germans because it is confused with right-wing nationalism. In contrast, Germans are proud to be Bavarians, Hesse or Dortmunders. So proud of their region. The regions and the forerunners, the principalities, are much older than the German state. The Day of German Unity was chosen incorrectly. On November 9, 1918, German democracy was proclaimed. On November 9, 1923, Hitler's attempted coup in Munich failed. On November 9, 1938, injustice happened to the Jews. On November 9, 1967, students demand reforms and come to terms with the Hitler era. On November 9, 1989, the border between West and East Germany falls. But the national holiday is on October 3rd and no one knows what happens.
Im proud and i chNged my name to show not all saxons are what the media make us look like Oh and i am suportive of Franken. They had to chose wo whst "bund" to join and bavaria had the biger present basket thats all they are not bavarians ndither culturaly nor mentaly and they never will be . I totaly suport if they wanted to be ome an independent Bundesland. One more or less is not biggie. And maybe i understand it so well cause historicly seen. Leipzig was freed by the amaricN soldiers but then just given um and given to the soviets. So my region too had to live under a flag and systhem that did not reflected opinion or culture. Just thst it was more extream we didnt had a choise and even though i was "produced" after the reunion my fsmily had enough storrys to tell. And even though the ddr was even worse thN bavsria is (obviously) i csn imagine a region with friendly open people who are genguin and nice and have this smallntiny sausages ",,Nürnberger" wich sre verry delicious. They are sick of the white sausage bear drinking idiotic csu voting steriotype thst comes with bavaria.
Ich liebe meine Heimatstadt Lübeck, die Königin der Hanse und ihre Geschichte. Da bin ich schon ´n büschen stolz drauf. Jaja, ich weiß: ich kann nicht auf etwas stolz sein das ich selber nicht errichtet habe, oder!? I love my hometown of Lübeck, the Queen of the Hanseatic League and its history. I'm quite proud of that. Yes, I know: I can't be proud of something I didn't build myself, right!?
In that case (case: shouldn't be proud of, what you didn't achieve) how people are proud of their children? Do they ignore that, what the kid did, is his achievement and just include themselves in whatever the kid does?
As a German born and raised in Hawaii, I was teased alot for being a white kid. I have to be proud of my heritage its who I am. I've been to Auschwitz, Hiroshima, Pearl harbor, and Ground zero in New York 9/11. And I have learned War is bad. We are all brothers. You should never be ashamed of who you are, that is propaganda from the people who run Hollywood.🙃jk. Not really Never Forget. Ps. Persecution of Uyghurs in concentration camps in China right now as you read this, and no one cares because they are not swej‽ Peace and love on earth 🌎❤ please
Hmmm? Ich bin von Guatemala, und ich bin Deutsche. Warum sagen wir Deutschen nicht : Ich bin aus Deutschland? Warum sagt sie nich ich bin ... Google gefragt wie man das nennt und nix gefunden... Ich bin Guatemalikin? Oh man, hilf mir!
My great great grandfather was Prussian, lived in Berlin, and I'm so proud of having a bit of German blood. When Merkel takes angry the German flag off the hand of a man near her. For me was she did was offensive to Germany and I'm not German. Germans, you live in a amazing country, your ancestors made it a great place to live, so be proud of them, proud of your strength. I love Germany!
Oh the German person is really patriotic when it comes to their region. They LOVE their city or home town. But every adjacent town is a cesspool of barbarians.
Es wird langsam zeit für einen kanzler der die deutsche geschichte kennt und die deutschen wieder zu deutsche machen kann......deutschland ist weit aus mehr als nur ww2 und due nazis.
I agree with you wholeheartedly. Today's German citizens are both responsible for the actions of the nazi regime. Be proud of your country and don't feel the need to explain the actions of others.
Germany stopped industrial killing since 1945, meanwhile Unmerika was in war ever since.. I dont get why we are not comfortable with beeing patriotic. In my opinion Patriotism is only for poeple who actively support the Envirement and never stop caring about the well beeing of their fellow men.. Just beeing born somewhere is not a reason to be proud of... Thats why Unmerican "patriotism" cant be taken seriously by dudes like me. Spiderman`s got his spider sense and we german Millenials got that "always watch not to say something that could be misunderstood.. I dont know why germans are so devot in terms of feeling guild for shit that happened when i wasnt even born. Dont even think about it, just obey! Yeeehe, good dog !!
I guess the counties, which are in war with another country or in themselves, are more proud than the counties, which are in real peace... I can be wrong also
I am German and in my 50ies, and I was raised to be very conscious of our not-so memorable past (1st and 2nd world war, the Nazi era), so seeing flags used to give me (unpleasant) chills. When people started showing flags during the soccer world championship in 2006, I was taken aback a little at first, but then it turned out that we Germans really managed to show a little pride for our country in a positive way, which I really loved.
I personally feel lucky to be able to live here and - yes - I am a little proud.
You should be extremely proud
All societies have done heinous things, I think it's about learning from those mistakes and moving on. It's okay to be patriotic.
@@clinicalpsychologist Never be "extremely" proud. That makes you blind and doesn't tend to end well.
@@oerthlingI'm very very proud to be German. We are NO KA OI. Want to fight about it?
❤
I think you captured the essence of German patriotism exceptionally well! I have lived abroad and have a very international friend groups, and, just like Yvonne, I only started being proud in some sense after getting positive outside reactions. The thing with patriotism and pride like in the US (or Central American countries, where I lived and hence that's a good point of reference) feels just foreign to me; as a German I tend to be proud of our country’s achievements, and the values our society stands for today rather than simply being proud of the fact that my passport is German. Also I think as a German one always carries multiple identities with oneself, I am a proud European as much as being happy to be German and Bavarian (the order is not deliberate in this case and changes depending on the situation :D)
I love Bavaria ❤️
The first verse of the German hymn ist not forbidden. Our constitution states that our official hymn is the 3rd verse, but the first two are not forbidden.
At my calmest mornings, I watch your videos, they are really informative and entertaining. And yes, I've noticed in Germany patriotism is not really a huge thing, however where I come from (Pakistan), we used to have national anthem even before watching a movie in the cinema for instance. However, I find it much much better here in Germany for the concept of patriotism, I mean it should be there, but not to a level where it gets annoying you know. (In Saxony where I live, patriotism is a bit more intense comparing to Bavaria, where I lived before) Germany is indeed a beautiful and an amazing country and Germans should definitely be proud of what they've accomplished as a country, but we all must remember, that we all are born on earth and respect for that should come first , we all are humans first, different colors and different nations shouldn't separate us in anyway, love should be spread all over. Okay that's enough of a speech from my side :D.
Yeah that pretty much sums it up .. we are not proud to be German we appreciate to be born here/ acknowledge the privilege
Your name… is not seem to be German.
@@clinicalpsychologist Read it backwards
It's also not exactly a new concept that people's families from different ethnic backgrounds sometimes have lived in Germany for two or three generations
In Europe we don't ''expose'' our flags ''American'' style😀....because we know very well in wich country we are..😀😀😀😀...we are '' proud'' when are sports events..( special football..wich sometimes degenerate..see the UK hooligans )....u
Proud of my country? Not in the sense that I think Germans are better people than others. But I am proud of what was achieved in Germany after the war. I am proud of Article 1 of the Basic Law. I am proud of the free and peaceful society that our forefathers set up in spite of all the problems. I am proud of our social system (despite all the problems), a system in which even the weaker can live. I am proud of our landscape, which is still beautiful after hundreds of years of cultivation. And many things more.
But I am not proud of something like "history", which is simply too interwoven with the history of others. There is no German history that does not include the history of many other nations. Especially since the area "Germany" has been settled since time immemorial, but the "nation" has not existed historically that long. People who claim the history of their country now are actually saying that they prefer the past to the present.
Thanks for sharing! 😊
That's right! I see that a lot in Iran. Persia doesn't exist anymore, but the people wish that it existed. So they are proud of their history.
A few corrections regarding the anthem:
There is a difference between the original piece of music - the "Deutschlandlied" or "Lied der Deutschen" - and the national anthem.
Before the reunification, it was never clearly stated, and just common use to sing only the 3rd verse of the Deutschlandlied... but since 1991, it was established the the official national anthem of the Federal Republic of Germany consists of the 3rd verse of the "Deutschlandlied", only and exclusively.
So the other two verses are not used when our anthem is needed/wanted... because they are not part of the anthem.
But on the other hand, using these verses is not forbidden. Just singing them might not be socially accepted generally, and using them when the national anthem is required would most certainly result in some sort of repercussions... but there are no legal consequences for singing it.
And in a similar way: the national anthem version that was used under the Nazi regime - only the first verse of the Deutschlandlied, directly followed by the "Horst Wessel Lied", _is_ legally forbidden, under the rules that prohibit the usage of nationalsocialist symbols.
I’m from Dominican Republic 🇩🇴 now leaving in Germany, before in the UK. For me is the same patriotism came across very vividly when leaving abroad even coming from proud countries like me. It’s good to now that German’s don’t need to me reaffirming about themselves, we will keep admiring them from inside and outside the country. You really are a great country with incredible people.
The whole idea of patriotism isn’t different from pride. Patriotism isn’t expressed in flags or anthem, or yelling it out in public. It’s about responding the call of your country. It’s about preserving the culture. Developing it further. Picking it from the ashes. I don’t many other countries did that like Germans. They have picked the country from the ground and made it into what it is today. I am not German and I admire them for that.
As a German, I still like the saying: "Dummheit und Stolz wachsen auf einem Holz (Stupidity and pride grow on a tree)!"
Americans often raise this topic here on RUclips, and I find it interesting to ask why this is so; the reference to the Nazi era is correct, but falls far short of the mark: in France and England, for example, you don't see nearly as many flags as in America. I suspect that almost all states (residents) in America historically bear a double burden:
- On the one hand, today's majorities were originally conquerors, occupiers, a numerical minority compared to the original population; even at this time, the resulting diaspora mentality was identity-forming;
- secondly, later, when they had pushed the original population into a minority, they liberated themselves from their own European rulers (England, Spain, France) with liberation wars:
So they don't live - like almost all Europeans - on original territory and have fought for their states with a lot of violence; the knowledge of this and the suppression of the history of violence leads to this, from a European point of view, excessive patriotism and nationalism!
When I look at the youth in Germany I can say the stupidity grows indeed on trees. They are not proud, just dumb and mainly mentally sick. Being proud is actually being healthy. As a psychotherapist and clinical psychologist I can attest to that.
@@clinicalpsychologist Kommt darauf an auf was man stolz ist
Guys, let's face it. Germany has great history, famous people in a lot of fields and hopefully a bright future, yet it's kind of forbidden to be a patriot. For example, the anthem. It's not Germany above all others, it's german unity above personal reasons. Grüße aus München
And it should be fixed and return to the original if only symbolicly
Hm, so, I'm German and also live here. I've also lived in South Africa as a child for some years, so I'm glad to have experienced at least one totally different culture before (and loved it down there!). I can say, I'm grateful for many of the benefits of living in Germany, especially as I have some health issues and our country is very supportive of people who need help. In other countries in the world, I might already be living in the streets. Not so here. Not everything is perfect here, but essentially Germany is a good place to live and thus, one could (and maybe should) be proud of it.
However, because of our history, I always feel like there's a negative connotation to showing patriotism here (outside of the sports events you mentioned). Personally, I would never add a patch of the German flag to my patch-covered backpack, because I'd be afraid, others might think I'm a neo-nazi. Walk past a group of punks in the city, and you might get in trouble for that! Perhaps an extreme example, but I've known of someone this has happened to.
In my neighborhood, there's a family who have the German flag raised in their garden all year, and while they might be totally normal people, this is always viewd with suspicion. It shouldn't be that way, because not everyone who is proud of our country nowadays, has ANY ideology from the disgusting past, and I know that! Yet, even I feel a little weirded out when I walk past that garden and see our flag there. It almost feels uncomfortable. And this reflects in politics as well. I think, many of the decisions (good and bad) nowadays are made based on the fear of Germany being seen in the wrong light again. It is, as though we just can't shake off the past and still cower guiltily in its shadow, even though the current generations have nothing to do with it anymore. Other countries, who have also commited terrible crimes (see the U.S. with the Native Americans for example) don't do that. It's a good thing not to forget and to learn from the past, but it's also sad, how it can still almost make you feel ashamed to be a German and to express any kind of patriotism without having this "guilty" aftertaste.
This could have been a difficult subject, but you handled it very well.
I agree!
Thank you for doing this video! I had this exact question and was wondering why it’s so different in Germany as compared to other countries. Your video was great
So very well done!
The wall came down on my Birthday Nov 9th 1989 and I was still in Germany on that day. I've always celebrated this day since for what was a momentous day, not the day that happen in 1938. I will turn 59 and the Wall coming down at 33 and I'm sorry but that won't be taken from me or history. Love your channel.
"Deutschland über alles" is often misunderstood. It was not meant like Germany above other contries, but Germany above local interests of German states and mini-states like Prussia, Bavaria, Wuerttemberg, Baden, Westphalia, Saxony and literally 300 others.
These were already united by the time the music was inaugurated as national anthem. And yes, you are right that this was what "Deutschland über alles" originally meant. Waaay back. After that it got adopted in the wrong hands, literally. It's our responsibility not to carry it waaaay forward, you know?
That's right, but the original meaning was forgotten at this time.
@@fannychristozova8158 by the time it was written it was not,,, deutschland über alles can also mean putting the interests of the PEOPLE of germany first, not those of military and financial aristocracy
Deutschland, Deutschland über alles. Über alles in der Welt ?
Doesn’t sound like what you’re implying tbh
@@miraniseini2931But that's how it was intended. Languages develop over time and the text was a product of nationalism in a world before 1871 when Germany was united.
9:08 The official celebration of the "Tag der Deutschen Einheit" has mostly taken place in the state capital of that country which at the time was chair of the Bundesrat. Last year, for example in Halle/Saale (Saxony-Anhalt) this year ist planned for Erfurt (Thuringia). By the way, it took place in Düsseldorf in 1995. Sure, many events happens in Berlin but also in many cities across Germany.
I think that Germans should be proud of their nationality and for whom they are now! Because they are one of the most democratic, liberal and well functioning societies in the world!
Of course they shouldn't ever forget the lessons of the second world war and the Holocaust, but as I'm aware, the Germans are very careful to always remember and teach the younger generations why those events shouldn't ever be allowed to happen again!
But be very proud of whom you are now, of what you achieved, because I think it will bind your society better!
Why shouldn't you be proud, but Russia, despite having the moral high ground then, and which today is massacring innocent civilians in a neighboring sovereign state, should be entitled to be exuberant, as they are, about patriotism!
Great Video. I approve the whole message 😀. Out of topic: I was there in düsseldorf last week and was looking at the roads for Jen and Ivan to show up accidently😁.. Alt bier ist wirklich toll.. Cheers 🍻
German National Anthem:
1) The lyrics are called "Das Lied der Deutschen" (The Song of the Germans) written by Hoffmann von Fallersleben in 1841. Its first verse is NOT forbidden! The simple fact is that only the third verse is part of the national anthem which was decided after the reunification in1990 by then Bundespräsident Richard von Weizsäcker and Bundeskanzler Helmut Kohl. This followed an earlier and similar decision from 1952 by Bundespräsident Theodor Heuss and Bundeskanzler Konrad Adenauer that only the third verse may be sung at official events.
Therefore it would not be illegal to sing all three verses in public. I couldn't advise it, though, because strange looks, lifted eybrows and intensive eyerolls would be the minimum reaction you should expect.
2) The national anthem of Germany today consists of the third verse of the Lied der Deutschen sung to the tune of the Austrian "Kaiserhymne" (Hymn to the Emperor) by Joseph Haydn. Often, like during the official reception of foreign state leaders, just the melody is played.
Great approach to the topic!
I think, next time when someone asks if I’m proud to be German, I’ll say, “define pride, because it might be different from how I define Stolz.” 😃
i was born in East Germany when it still was behind the iron curtain and i was just 10 years old when the Berlin wall fell and i am proud that we achieved a mostly peaceful revolution and the reunification. And yes i am aware that factors outside of our control helped that the events didn't end in a massacre. Still i think we as a people achieved something there. And yes i feel proud for our german constitution especially when i see what happens in the US currently with the surpreme court going haywire.
By the way, the Guatemalan anthem was created by José Joaquín Palma, a Cuban.
Hello - great and interesting video. I never thought about being proud to be german or proud of Germany... You are right, I am proud to have raised and 49 years lived in Essen/Ruhrgebiet... Proud of "Kohle und Stahl", of the change after closing the mines... And now I see how proud the "Friesen" are to be "independent Friesen"....
....... ...... ...... And I guess, it fits us well, not to be tooo proud😉
Thanks a lot for this video, guys!
I think you did a great job, explaining this topic.
Being born and raised in germany i went through an education system that was rather biased when it came to "german history". The achievments were not exactly downplayed but the ugly face was way more emphasized during history, geography, or even german classes. For me, back then it was hard to understand how people could be proud of their nation when there in reality is a lot to be ashamed for. And as always, every nations history has some dark spots on its "shining armour" one could emphasize.
I remember back in 2006 how weirf it at first felt, seeing all these german flags waving from houses, cars, people... It was a completely new sensation to me. Still i think it was about time for us germans to become more easy on ourselves and our country.
By the way: thanks for mentioning the franconian part of bavaria. Being from Nuremberg, my heart just smiled a little. 😁
Thank your for addressing this topic so eloquently. I think it's ok to be proud of your country but don't find it necessary to constantly advertise it as we do here in the US. It's almost as if we have to prove the point to ourselves on a minute by minute basis. As though we are insecure. It can be quite embarrassing. I'm glad to know that Germans are just comfortable being German. It's even difficult to find the German flag on your national air carrier Lufthansa aircraft!
Just like Yvonne mentioned, I never even thought about it, have never been focused on political or social topics, for me only science & technology was on my agenda. In other words I really ignored that fact that I was German and with our very dark history, I always felt more like a European.
Spending some time in the US I was surprised that they had much more respect for my country that I ever had. Now that I am even older and interested in political and social aspects of our societies, I suddenly learn to value being German and part of the system and am happy to contribute to that as well as enjoying its advantages and seeing other people in existential safety and comfort who otherwise would never be able to survive.
Since I seem to appear relatively serious and professional, while deep inside I am just very different, I always get a kick out of breaking the stereotype of the German who has no humor and start telling something with a serious beginning and then branch off in totally ridiculous direction while keeping a straight face and waiting for the first person to crack up and cause a chain reaction, breaking the ice. I don't care if I joke about myself or Germans, which have plenty of potential for jokes, I just want to make people laugh, else nobody will join my funeral anyway.
I have no respect for anyone being proud of something he didn't achieve, like growing up somewhere or being born into a wealthy family or anything that would make you feel superior over others.
It shows the lack of respect, understanding and questioning everything and being social, empathic and loving to others. In other words only very uneducated or never in any way evolved "traditional" people can come up with that concept. Most nationalistic tendencies I find just as scary as these people who are proud to even exist.
Thanks a lot for your perspective!
❤ 6:02 - cutest picture ever! ❤
The first verse is not forbidden. It's just not part of the anthem. There is a BVG sentence from 1990 putting the whole song under artistic freedom.
To understand this first verse you need to understand, that when it was written, there was no unified Germany. A Germany, as we know it today, was a dream and a wish. The first verse tried to convey that emotion: We'd be happier than ever, had we Germany.
The Nazis, of course, took the whole song and made it part of their ideology. That is why we can't have nice things, people will use them and reinterpret them.
Gotta love the thumbnail!
Stating in Germany that you are "proud to be German" will likely put you to the far right corner of the political spectrum. So we avoid saying these things out loud at all costs. Showing our flag is not so common (except for sport events) and is not necessary, we usually know where we are and how the flag looks like (and, it doesn't look as cool as all the others with it's dark and dull colors). But we all know what a positive reputation we have in the world. We can travel to more country's without a visa than anyone else. People love the Idea of a stable government and not changing government every few years or even months. Yes, we do a lot of things right and that gives us all a great feeling. But "Patriotism" like it's celebrated in the US is really strange to us. We learned our lessons, after two world wars with patriotism in overdrive. So yes, it is great to be a German.
How was the first one your fault
Einigkeit und Recht und Freiheit! I have researched myself a lot on this topic throughout recent years, and for two major reasons which are equally important and equally personal to me - my fascination with history (But also my dedication to always read it correctly), and then my love for Germany. You see, it might look a bit weird, since I've graduated in the field of English studies (yes, I'm pretty good in both American and British history, as well as current affairs), and I finished first in my French class in high school.
And yet, I have since long ago chosen and eyed Germany, because this is a country where anyone's actions and behavior gets literally mirrored for what they are. If I do something wrong, I will see about it and I'll feel it, if the person next to me does something wrong, I'll be even more sure of that. If I approach someone nicely,they will approach me twice as nice. I miss so much this mirror-like mindset here in my home country. I was raised this way and also my aunt is from Halle, so as a child I literally grew up into German clothes. (and I might have been the first child in Bulgaria to have After Eight sweets 😋) Jen, I can relate to some extend about what you say the Guatemala national pride sounds and feels like. All of this "Ooh I'm proud,we have a deep and beautiful culture, ancient history, ooh!" (firm truth) Yep 😉, fathers sitting by the TV, bragging just like that in every second or third household here. By the way, I did a curiosity test for national anthems around the world, Guatemala's is very beautiful! And about the German one, it wasn't until started learning the language and culture that I realized why exactly was I seeing graffiti like "Bulgaria above all""... once I learned where it comes from, I learned a lot more about how to see symbols and read people.
This episode is wonderful, girls! Don't hesitate to speak such topics, I think it's a wonderful job!
Thanks so much for sharing your stories Fanny! For us is equally interesting to read your experiences and opinion. And we also agree, having context for understanding things in life is so important. Wow look at you being all good in French 😀
@@simplegermany Oui, ma langue première, c'était le français. Et j'en suis fière avec mes années les meilleures. I still work with some French on my current job, but I'm really a lot more concentrated on German right now.. even while I reply to you now I have my notebook with words from today's things I've watched and gathered... So my experience is also my deeper observation. Well, you know me already, and I have some ideas, some plans, some certain ventures I have in mind. I have chosen Germany long ago for that, and I have chosen Düsseldorf about three years ago for the first time, but then I had some "meh" about that, then other things also had to change, so I was left alone with wondering and/or having to decide.. I did so, and I told you right away. 😉
Yes, less than 6 weeks to go 😱🎉
@@simplegermany Omg please don't, I'm so scared.. I'm all over your website constantly and it's helped me a lot!! But I'm still scared and careful. 😱 But I know I'll make it.
Of course you’ll make it!! Don’t be scared, it’s a new exciting adventure for you! Of course there will be bumps along the way, but you’ll go over them smooothly 😅🙃
I agree. Today there are less people who are aware, but the ideas on Germanic Woman, Germanic Literature, Germanic Tradition, were things that were heavily pushed by that leader with the strange mustache. It actually makes sense to not make patriotism and ethnocentrism such a dominating value in how we see ourselves and others. Some groups in America also like to use the phrase Patriot to call each other this. I suspect that we will have less problems, if we treat all ethnicities/nations, and different types of minorities in our communities better.
Die zentrale (i.e. größte) Feier zum Tag Der Deutschen Einheit am 3.Oktober findet stets in dem Bundesland statt, das in dem betreffenden Jahr den Vorsitz im Bundesrat innehält.
I just googled the 2. verse of the national anthem and it´s actually quite beautiful. I have no idea why we don´t sing it.
German flag printed things you will probably find at the airport in the souvenir shop with mugs, shot glasses, caps or fridge magnets boasting it, but otherwise I haven't seen it much. Regarding the Re-unification day I once read that a big celebration is held in different cities every year, so lots of cities or state capitals get their turn for the big celebration. Oh and in terms of pride, not sure whether I am proud, as you already said I did not choose to be born in Germany, that's where I was born where I grew up, the values learned etc. But I must say it is kind of 'wow' that over the course of history, all the dark chapters in it the country always managed to get up on its feet again, being left to completely self governed again without causing much of a big stir and how the whole economy went flourishing (with help of all the foreign guest workers in the 50's) to be a respected nation again
I think it's fine for anybody to show pride, a flag, or whatever. I am an American, and I really hated seeing so many flags after 9/11. I mean, I'm proud of my country, and I love America, but that was TOO MUCH. However, I got used to it, and I understand that it was a way for the regular people to show support for the military fighting abroad, or the firefighters and police who died on 9/11. Over the years, I don't cringe anymore. And I am happy that Germans are more proud of their country too, during sports and other big events. :) I think it's okay if it doesn't go too far. (What is "too far"? I don't know. Obviously, WWII was too far, but what was the tipping point?)
Careful wirth that statement about the first verse of our German anthem.
It’s clearly NOT forbidden, it’s just not used - due to history.
You can walk around in public and sing it as loud as you want.
Of course rather no one would do it.
Can I shout it out? I would, but it makes me cry. 🇩🇪🇩🇪🇩🇪
@@Heavenfound It should make you cry, it’s a beautiful verse about loving your home country, it has nothing to do with superiority. It was sung long before Captain Austria of Braunau.
@@FlorianGuitar85 Thank God for awakened germans.
@@Heavenfound Thanks accepted.
Weirdly I would almost say I am proud not to be proud about "being a German". There has always been some sense of simpleminded/ almost mindless loyalty to me when it comes to patriotism like some I have experienced in the States.
I want to be proud of my country, though - hence I am not holding back with criticism. 🤣 It's all in the hopes of improving when improvement is needed. And I surely am an all-out advocate for German bread!!!
I think within Germany itself it is not really a big thing to think about being pride about the country etc. But when I was on vacation in South Korea and people asked me where I'm from I have to say I felt a bit proud to say that I'm from Germany. At least I had a good feeling to say it. I think it has to do with the good reputation Germany generally has.
Jen and Yvonne, did you guys know that Stuttgart is having a big Latin America festival and celebration this weekend? If you guys feel interested in going, it would fun to meet up and buy you some beers (or a coffee/or whatever you drink)... let me know if you're up for it!
Oh we did not know about the festival. We won’t be able to join this time around! Thanks for your kind offer for beers (of course 😄). Hopefully next time 😉
Suzanne, this is great! I'm happy
I´m proud to be German /Kölner😂. But in the normal life you don´t think about it. And after looking of many expat videos, I see my country with some new fews. It´s right that most of the foreigner love Germany for the things that normal for us!
I'm a little surprised how you phrased your summary of "Deutschland. Deutschland über alles". While the Nazis definitely misused the "Lied der Deutschen" and other cultural artifacts for their propaganda, its author, August Heinrich Hoffmann von Fallersleben, had had a more positive intention with it.
At the time he wrote that poem, Germany wasn't united yet. So his line "Germany, Germany above all" was supposed to carry the meaning of hundreds of tiny German states uniting into something greater that would lead the Germans into a more liberal and democratic future.
just FYI: It's a myth that the first verse of the german national anthem is forbidden. In 1952 Chancellor Adenauer and President Heuss declared the "Deutschlandlied" (Song of the Germans) as the german national anthem. This includes all 3 verses. However it was decided that only the 3rd verse will be sung during official occasions.
In March 1990, the Federal Constitutional Court (Bundesverfassungsgericht) ruled that the entire song - including verses one and two - may be interpreted under the protection of artistic freedom. However, only the third stanza is protected under criminal law. So if you want to have a go at the the Song and give it new lyrics you can do so but be careful to play around with only the first 2 verses or else you might go to prison :-)
If you sing all 3 verses, you are theoretically singing the "Deutschlandlied" but not the national anthem. If you want to sing the anthem, just sing the 3rd verse.
Very interesting points! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Yes, exactly. You follow the course of decisions very correctly. I only don't understand, after all facts with dates, how is the first verse not forbidden, but it is practically cut out at all occasions, but then it's not forbidden? And it's called "Das Lied der Deutschen".
@@fannychristozova8158
Yes, you are absolutely right. The official name is "Das Lied der Deutschen" but ""Deutschlandlied" is a commonly used name for that song.
First: Why should the first verse be banned? Because of the "Germany above everything" part? Because of a short (and cruel) period in Germany's history?
When Fallersleben wrote the text in 1841, nobody could have imagined what would happen about 100 years later. At that time there was no Germany in the sense of a single country, but there were only different principalities and kingdoms.
So the intent of the first verse is not to say that Germany is better/bigger/whatever than other countries and should therefore considered superior. It should only clarify that a united Germany is to be regarded highly and preferred over many small principalities and kingdoms.
And this statement was more relevant than ever after the end of the Second World War with the division of Germany into west and east Germany.
If the song actually aimed to glorify the greatness of Germany over other countries (and was written sometime in the 1930s/1940s) then yes, I can understand a ban on the lyrics/song.
And second: singing only one verse of the anthem happens in other countries as well. For example, the US national anthem has 4 verses and only the first one is sung. And it probably happens in other countries too.
Why it was decided to only sing the 3rd verse? I don't know, i can only guess. Maybe it was considered offensive in light of recent german history. And because unity, justice and freedom are good things they decided to use only the 3rd verse. The 2nd verse is more or less a party song in my opinion. Singing about women, wine and music might not be the best suited text for an anthem :D
@@simplegermany my pleasure 🙂
I agree entirely with the facts of what you share on the subject! I read it and I thank you!! Speaking of a harsh national anthem, have you heard the Frenchmen's Marseillaise? 😅 Now, the decision about third verse for the Germany national anthem, I think is only right.
In India, the national anthem is played ahead of movie shows in many theaters, and everyone should stand in attention to show respect. 🙃
Wow! 😲
That's the moment germans would break out in hives.
Thats brainwashing lol
@@YukiTheOkami India for ya!
During I listen this video I remembered the chance of the currency too Euro. I really was a little bit disappointed that the symbolic of my favorid coin the 50 Pfennig is gone. The woman who build germany again after the WWII, planted the oak.
But I was glad to find the words from the 5 DM coin on the 2 Euro one - Einigkeit und Recht und Freiheit 😀
I guess, I just don't really think of things that are good or not so good about Germany in terms of "Germany". It's more like "here at the national level", since I can't pin my identity solely on Germany, since I identify on the geographic/cultural level as many things. I'm from the black forest, I'm a Badener, a Baden-Württemberger, a EU citizen, I identify with my hometown, with the town I live in right now and with the counties these towns are located in. There just isn't so much space left for the Germany thing to be this huge aspect of my identity and have this great sense of patriotism, since my affiliations are already spread over so many layers.
Ich persönlich bin mehr stolz Bayer zu sein als Deutscher, denn die deutsche Geschichte erinnert mich an n@zis, WW2, einem dummen Kaiser, ein Kaiserreich, wo Preußen das Sagen hatte und an einen Bismarck, der mit Preußen, Bayern unterdrückt hat. Es gab natürlich auch gute Sachen aber, das was ich aufgezählt habe, hat eine größere Bedeutung für mich als andere Sachen
Patriotism is dangerous!
General and frequently practiced "innocent" patriotism makes the field fertile in which the seeds of a determined fascist sprout quickly and easily.
When I was young, the question was often discussed: how could the Third Reich happen in a cultural nation like Germany? Today you can see live how it happens in the States.
Of course, in Germany there is much greater pride in the region. Germany hasn't existed for very long; the individual regions of Germany were their own countries until not so long ago (e.g. Bavaria existed as independed country for 1316 years before it joined the German Empire in 1871, it has its own national constitution - which ist suspended/overruled for the time Bavaria is part of the Federal Republic - and its own national anthem). In many regions, people have not forgotten the stories when ancestors fought against other now german regions not so long ago.
While the political class still thinks the reunification ist something to celebrate, the population in the former east AND west really don't think there's much to be partied about. People in the east were raided by capitalist cockroaches and in the west had to pay for it all without ever having been asked nor having had any say.
Is the first verse of the Deutschlandlied now forbidden?
Clear answer: no. The Federal Constitutional Court had in a verdict
decided in March 1990 that the whole song - including one and two - may be interpreted under the protection of artistic freedom.
Tbh, there was a hidden law/rule in GER that you where not allowed to be proud of German culture and historical things at all. Most of the time an "over patriotism behavior", like flags at home or even singing the anthem for fun in the mall :),had brought you pretty quick in connection to the Nazi's.
Bitte, eine Frage. Am Nationalfeiertag darf ich die Flagge meinem Land ans Fenster hängen?
Na klar 😊
I am proud that you both are so cute are lovely beautiful girls😀. Hacen una linda pareja.
Meckern is indeed a national sport :) Anyway, a video which comes to my mind is this, where the point Is made that treating patriotism as a taboo topic means leaving it to the far right (and Franziska knows what she's talking about): ruclips.net/video/SPJelf-n-j8/видео.html
Hallo leute und freunde Aus brasilien Blumenau stadt SC
Thank you for your new and awesome video! As a Ukrainian living now in Germany due to the war I’m 100% sure Germans have a lot of reasons to be proud of their wonderful country. I sincerely appreciate everything your government and you people have been doing for us and want to say a huge thank you to everyone.
Hey Julia, thank you so much for your kind words! Welcome to Germany! We hope you can settle as smoothly as possible, even though coming here was not really by choice. We truly hope that bureaucracy does not hinder you too much! All the best to you! 😊
@@simplegermany Thank you!
I think you have to move on. You can be proud of your nationality.
Love from Norway
I understand what you are say, I am proud to come from Liverpool but not to be English
The English people, who come for holiday to Turkey, have something interesting. When there's a pool game for example and the chief of entertainment team is asking everyone, where they come from. Every foreigner say their country but the English people say their city! That's really interesting...
I'm proud not needing to be proud :)
Are you going to meet your fans whose lives are going 'smoothly' after watching your videos?
in egypt we like germany more than you think actually 😍😍😍
Have you been to Germany? It is sooooo nice, especially in spring when everything is quite suddenly full of green plants.
@@sisuguillam5109 Unfortunately not yet. But I am working on traveling this summer and hope to settle between Hamburg and Niedersachsen.
I am preparing myself for an arbeitssuchend visa .wish me luck and you?
@@mahmoudelsherif4981 that is such a lovely area! With Denmark and Poland close by (and the Netherlands not to far of) you have so much to see and do.
I am from Hessen - which I can recommend too. We've got plenty of castles and pretty little towns!
Hey, I asked a question under the recent bicycle in Germany video you did. I’ll appreciate if you can answer me.
The question is, as an international student, how can I have a license that will enable me to drive electric bike with more than 250watt rating
That depends on you have a driving license and it is recognized in Germany. And your bike needs a platenumber.
...but it's 2022 and you know how to use the internet, right?.. you navigated to this site, at least twice. Why do you speak so harshly to them, to demand they do research for you, when you can do a search and find the answer yourself? 🙄...It took me less than 5 minutes to find the answer and process required to license, what i just learned is called a mokick in Germany.
We actually answered your question the first time around 😉
@@suzannes5888 hey sorry if the tone comes out as been rude, I didn’t intend on such, and regarding finding the answers myself, I actually did find it before asking. Probably google geo-location of a thing is what made the article not available for me in my country…
Jen and Yvonne, I’m sorry if my question came out as being rude….
No worries! We just hope you have found our answer under your original comment? In short: you will need a German moped license to drive such a fast bike. So you either apply for it or not get such a fast bike 😊
We ❤ Germany :)
The symbols and symbolism of German nationality have been exaggerated, misused and outright "tainted" by the nazis. Showing of flags and singing the national anthem were either associated with extreme right wing ideology or restricted to few and solemn occasions. The national anthem is appropiate for funerals rather than exuberant festivities. 2006 was the first time ever Germans would do flag waiving without being reminded of their cruel history.
Patriotism is often a problem for Germans because it is confused with right-wing nationalism. In contrast, Germans are proud to be Bavarians, Hesse or Dortmunders. So proud of their region. The regions and the forerunners, the principalities, are much older than the German state.
The Day of German Unity was chosen incorrectly.
On November 9, 1918, German democracy was proclaimed.
On November 9, 1923, Hitler's attempted coup in Munich failed.
On November 9, 1938, injustice happened to the Jews.
On November 9, 1967, students demand reforms and come to terms with the Hitler era.
On November 9, 1989, the border between West and East Germany falls.
But the national holiday is on October 3rd and no one knows what happens.
How did that german democracy work out LOL
Im proud and i chNged my name to show not all saxons are what the media make us look like
Oh and i am suportive of Franken.
They had to chose wo whst "bund" to join and bavaria had the biger present basket thats all they are not bavarians ndither culturaly nor mentaly and they never will be . I totaly suport if they wanted to be ome an independent Bundesland. One more or less is not biggie.
And maybe i understand it so well cause historicly seen. Leipzig was freed by the amaricN soldiers but then just given um and given to the soviets. So my region too had to live under a flag and systhem that did not reflected opinion or culture.
Just thst it was more extream we didnt had a choise and even though i was "produced" after the reunion my fsmily had enough storrys to tell. And even though the ddr was even worse thN bavsria is (obviously) i csn imagine a region with friendly open people who are genguin and nice and have this smallntiny sausages ",,Nürnberger" wich sre verry delicious. They are sick of the white sausage bear drinking idiotic csu voting steriotype thst comes with bavaria.
Wir Schwaben möchten auch gern aus Bayern raus.
Ich liebe meine Heimatstadt Lübeck, die Königin der Hanse und ihre Geschichte. Da bin ich schon ´n büschen stolz drauf. Jaja, ich weiß: ich kann nicht auf etwas stolz sein das ich selber nicht errichtet habe, oder!?
I love my hometown of Lübeck, the Queen of the Hanseatic League and its history. I'm quite proud of that. Yes, I know: I can't be proud of something I didn't build myself, right!?
In that case (case: shouldn't be proud of, what you didn't achieve) how people are proud of their children? Do they ignore that, what the kid did, is his achievement and just include themselves in whatever the kid does?
As a German born and raised in Hawaii, I was teased alot for being a white kid. I have to be proud of my heritage its who I am.
I've been to Auschwitz, Hiroshima, Pearl harbor, and Ground zero in New York 9/11.
And I have learned War is bad. We are all brothers.
You should never be ashamed of who you are, that is propaganda from the people who run Hollywood.🙃jk. Not really
Never Forget.
Ps. Persecution of Uyghurs in concentration camps in China right now as you read this, and no one cares because they are not swej‽
Peace and love on earth 🌎❤ please
Hmmm? Ich bin von Guatemala, und ich bin Deutsche. Warum sagen wir Deutschen nicht : Ich bin aus Deutschland? Warum sagt sie nich ich bin ... Google gefragt wie man das nennt und nix gefunden... Ich bin Guatemalikin? Oh man, hilf mir!
Guatemaltekin 😉
My great great grandfather was Prussian, lived in Berlin, and I'm so proud of having a bit of German blood. When Merkel takes angry the German flag off the hand of a man near her. For me was she did was offensive to Germany and I'm not German. Germans, you live in a amazing country, your ancestors made it a great place to live, so be proud of them, proud of your strength. I love Germany!
Oh the German person is really patriotic when it comes to their region. They LOVE their city or home town. But every adjacent town is a cesspool of barbarians.
Fußball!!!! Es heißt Fußball! Nicht Soccer!!!
😅
Chill, dude!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!
@@simplegermany Tooooor!! 😅⚽
Germans need a second amendment, and 1st amendment 🇩🇪 Deutschland
2nd ☺
Es wird langsam zeit für einen kanzler der die deutsche geschichte kennt und die deutschen wieder zu deutsche machen kann......deutschland ist weit aus mehr als nur ww2 und due nazis.
I agree with you wholeheartedly. Today's German citizens are both responsible for the actions of the nazi regime. Be proud of your country and don't feel the need to explain the actions of others.
Germany stopped industrial killing since 1945, meanwhile Unmerika was in war ever since..
I dont get why we are not comfortable with beeing patriotic. In my opinion Patriotism is only for poeple who actively support the Envirement and never stop caring about the well beeing of their fellow men.. Just beeing born somewhere is not a reason to be proud of... Thats why Unmerican "patriotism" cant be taken seriously by dudes like me. Spiderman`s got his spider sense
and we german Millenials got that "always watch not to say something that could be misunderstood..
I dont know why germans are so devot in terms of feeling guild for shit that happened when i wasnt even born.
Dont even think about it, just obey! Yeeehe, good dog !!
I guess the counties, which are in war with another country or in themselves, are more proud than the counties, which are in real peace... I can be wrong also
I'm with you I don't get it either.