Story perspectives

Historian Empowers Families to Uncover WWII Ancestors' Roles

4/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

Johannes Spohr, a German historian, founded Present Past workshops after learning his grandfather's involvement with the Nazi Party to help others research their family histories.
Participants seek clarity about their ancestors' roles in World War II, spurred by concerns over the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.
Spohr says that uncovering painful truths can foster solidarity and that evaluating both victims and perpetrators builds a healthier narrative.

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Story summary

Johannes Spohr, a German historian, founded Present Past workshops after learning his grandfather's involvement with the Nazi Party to help others research their family histories.
Participants seek clarity about their ancestors' roles in World War II, spurred by concerns over the rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.
Spohr says that uncovering painful truths can foster solidarity and that evaluating both victims and perpetrators builds a healthier narrative.