Interview: Historikerin sieht Parallelen zu 1933: „Es gibt ein Gefühl, dass demokratische Parteien es nicht mehr hinkriegen“
Andrea Schneider-Braunberger hat erforscht, wie nah die Wirtschaft der NSDAP stand. Wie führte Opportunismus zum Mitmachen? Und was können Unternehmer heute daraus lernen?
Historian Dr. Schneider-Braunberger points out parallels between today and 1933, noting the great uncertainty faced by workers and employers alike. She believes that political extremes, like the left-wing desire to confiscate the rich's wealth and the right-wing call for expelling foreigners, are taking advantage of this uncertainty.
She highlights the AfD's self-referential reference to the NSDAP as a major concern, describing it as "historical amnesia concerning National Socialism" and "the friendly face of National Socialism." Dr. Schneider-Braunberger emphasizes that understanding a party's entire platform is crucial, rather than focusing on individual interests.
She warns that supporting a non-democratic party can quickly lead to the erosion of democracy, citing the AfD's actions in Sachsen-Anhalt as an example. As for the AfD's support from business leaders, only two individuals over 35,000 euros are known to have donated to the party in 2026. Dr. Schneider-Braunberger stresses the importance of democratic parties demonstrating that Germany can succeed, and the significance of business leaders in the rise of the NSDAP prior to 1933, highlighting Fritz Thyssen and Friedrich Flick as notable examples.
Written by urgent.news from Handelsblatt's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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