Modern German Perspectives on the Loss of Eastern Territories: Regret or Reconciliation?

After the end of World War II in 1945, over one-fourth of West Germans were displaced persons, primarily from the eastern German Prussian territories. The issue of regaining these lost lands continued to be a significant part of West German politics until the 1980s. Despite the political and geographical realities, the desire to reclaim these territories remained a focus of many political parties, from the left to the right.

The Political and Psychological Trajectory

The prospects for reunification were initially bleak due to the dominance of the Cold War's superpower dynamics between the USA and the USSR. Consequently, the idea of regaining the lost territories became unrealistic. By the late 1960s, the Social Democrats changed their stance and acknowledged the Oder-Neisse border as the de facto international boundary. However, all treaties signed by West Germany were made under the condition of ultimate agreement by a reunified Germany, a milestone achieved in 1990 with the 4 2 treaty.

Voting Patterns and Changing Generations

The shift in West German policy around 1970 deeply affected those who had been expelled from the eastern territories, leading to a significant increase in support for the Christian Democrats. However, subsequent generations showed no interest in reclaiming or resettling these lands. The focus shifted to integrating back into Europe and addressing domestic challenges.

Challenges to Future Relations

While Germans do not harbor aggressive sentiments towards Poland, several factorsComplicate the reconciliation process. Firstly, the actions of Polish ultranationalists in recent years have involved aggressive verbal attacks on Germany and insistence on unacceptable demands. Secondly, the repercussions of the two major expulsions in 1920 (approximately 8 million) and 1945 (approximately 10 million) continue to cast a long shadow, with Poland maintaining its stance that the ethnic cleansing was justified.

Historical Accountability and Future Outlook

The Soviet leader, Stalin, was primarily responsible for the 1945 expulsions, which he believed necessary to ensure ongoing Cold War fears were addressed. However, the Polish insistence on the righteousness of these actions perpetuates the blame on Germany. As German attitudes toward history evolve, a more balanced treatment of World War I and II, especially regarding the reasons behind Hitler's rise to power, may lead to a reevaluation of their relationship with their neighbors. This could potentially bridge gaps and foster a more harmonious future.

While reparations for past wrongs are acknowledged and efforts towards reconciliation continue, the ongoing attitudes and hostilities will need to change for true reconciliation to be achieved. This will involve acknowledging and responding to historical injustices and fostering a more inclusive and empathetic understanding of each other's perspectives.