679. Germany: The Song Hitler Stole (Part 3)

Dominic Sandbrook introduces the German national anthem, discussing Germany's historic success in the World Cup and how the anthem's history is often misunderstood. He notes that its roots are not militaristic, contrary to common belief.

Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland discuss the origins and political controversies surrounding the German national anthem, 'Das Lied der Deutschen.' They explore recent political rows involving the far-right AfD and left-wing Die Linke parties regarding the anthem's verses. Finally, they trace the anthem's musical roots back to Austrian composer Joseph Haydn and his inspiration from Britain's 'God Save the King' in 1797.

Hosts Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook discuss the origins of the German national anthem, tracing its melody back to Joseph Haydn's 1797 Austrian anthem dedicated to Emperor Franz II. They explain how poet August Heinrich Hoffmann von Fallersleben later wrote the lyrics for 'Das Lied der Deutschen' while on holiday in Heligoland, transforming the Austrian tune into a symbol of German unity.

Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland break down the lyrics of the German national anthem, explaining that its original intent was liberal and unifying rather than militaristic. They discuss the geographical references in the song and the historical context of its creator, Hoffmann von Fallersleben, who struggled to find immediate success with the piece.

Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland discuss the aftermath of the failed 1848 revolutions in Germany and the eventual unification of the German Empire under Prussian leadership in 1871. They explore how the liberal 'Song of the Germans' was initially sidelined by Prussia in favor of more militaristic anthems like 'The Watch on the Rhine.' The segment concludes with how an 1890 territorial treaty with Britain began to revive interest in the song.

Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland discuss how the 'Song of the Germans' transitioned from an obscure piece of music to a powerful national symbol. They trace its adoption during the incorporation of Heligoland, its role in World War I myth-making—including accounts from Adolf Hitler—and its eventual designation as the national anthem by Weimar Republic President Friedrich Ebert.

The hosts discuss the political transition in Germany following the death of Friedrich Ebert in 1925, leading to the presidency of Paul von Hindenburg and the eventual appointment of Adolf Hitler as Chancellor in 1933. They explore how the Weimar Republic's anthem, "Deutschlandlied," survived under the Nazi regime due to its nationalistic appeal, and preview upcoming discussions on East Germany's communist anthem and Bertolt Brecht.

The hosts discuss how the Nazi regime adapted the German national anthem, focusing on the first verse and pairing it with the 'Horst Wessel Lied.' They detail the life of Horst Wessel, whose squalid death was repackaged by Joseph Goebbels into a heroic martyrdom, and cover the strict post-WWII banning of the song that eventually impacted modern tech platforms.

Following the devastation of World War II, West Germany faced a deep identity crisis, particularly in choosing a new national anthem. While some politicians like Chancellor Konrad Adenauer advocated for the return of 'Das Lied der Deutschen', others feared its Nazi associations, leading to temporary alternatives like carnival songs before a compromise was reached.

West Germany's unexpected victory in the 1954 World Cup final against Hungary sparked controversy when fans sang the forbidden first verse of the national anthem. This incident, coupled with nationalist remarks by football association president Pico Bauwens, drew public condemnation from West German President Theodor Heuss and provided propaganda material for East Germany. Meanwhile, East Germany established its own distinct identity by quickly commissioning a new socialist national anthem written by Johannes Becher.

The hosts discuss the creation and history of the East German national anthem, composed by Hans Eisler, which Dominic Sandbrook considers an absolute masterpiece. They trace its journey from a popular, unifying anthem to its eventual suppression of lyrics in the 1970s as East Germany sought to establish a separate identity from West Germany.

Following the fall of the Berlin Wall, Germany faced a contentious debate over which national anthem to adopt. While some proposed compromises using East German lyrics or Bertolt Brecht's self-flagellating 'Children's Anthem,' West German Chancellor Helmut Kohl ultimately rejected these options, maintaining the West German anthem.

The hosts discuss the modern history of Germany's national anthem, focusing on how the 2006 World Cup served as a turning point for public patriotism. They also touch on England's disappointing performance in the same tournament and preview upcoming episodes on other national anthems.

The hosts announce a special Father's Day discount for The Rest is History Club membership. They highlight benefits such as early access, bonus episodes, and ad-free listening.