We have lived in Germany almost 10 years, and it is a surprise to us when we see a German flag flying. Of course, during the World Cup which was hosted here 2 years ago, there were flags everywhere. And now the Euro Cup is being played and the flags are out again. But why aren't flags a normal part of the scenery? Here's part of an article on why the Germans seldom fly their flag...
"The German flag, long weighted by the country's postwar reluctance about open displays of national pride, is flying again. When you see so many German flags flying from windows, that's a development that was long overdue, while not forgetting what happened in this country before."
"For most of the years since World War II, the Germans have not really been sure whether it was appropriate to display emblems showing that they loved their country."
"For decades patriotism was associated with nationalism, and that most terrible manifestation of nationalism, blind obedience to an evil leader. If Germans loved Germany, it still seemed bad form to express that love in symbols like the flag."
But when it's time for sports, the flags come out. Still, it's a strange sight to see them. It's plain to see in this and other ways as well that the German people are still dealing with deep guilt and humiliation from the war.
"The German flag, long weighted by the country's postwar reluctance about open displays of national pride, is flying again. When you see so many German flags flying from windows, that's a development that was long overdue, while not forgetting what happened in this country before."
"For most of the years since World War II, the Germans have not really been sure whether it was appropriate to display emblems showing that they loved their country."
"For decades patriotism was associated with nationalism, and that most terrible manifestation of nationalism, blind obedience to an evil leader. If Germans loved Germany, it still seemed bad form to express that love in symbols like the flag."
But when it's time for sports, the flags come out. Still, it's a strange sight to see them. It's plain to see in this and other ways as well that the German people are still dealing with deep guilt and humiliation from the war.
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