Friedrich Ludwig Jahn: hero or hate figure? Lecture in the Museum Neukölln!

Friedrich Ludwig Jahn: hero or hate figure? Lecture in the Museum Neukölln!

On September 26, 2025, a captivating lecture by Henning Holsten took place in the Museum Neukölln, who dealt with the controversial figure Friedrich Ludwig Jahn. Jahn, who is considered the prophet of ethnic nationalism, was not only the founder of the first German gymnastics place, but also the spiritual father of the fraternities. His work had profound effects on the modern German national movement at the beginning of the 19th century, such as reported becomes.

Henning Holsten illuminated the complex facets of Jahn's life and work. He praised Jahn's influence on the development of the gymnastics movement and showed how his commitment was both admired and criticized. Jahns reflected the dark side of German nationalism, including xenophobia, self -increase and militarism.

The lecture and his accompaniment

The lecture was opened by Janine Wolter, the district councilor for education, school and culture. Dr. Matthias Henkel, head of the Museum Department, City History and Culture of Memory, moderated the event. Holsten also informed those present about the dichotomies that Jahn shaped: On the one hand, he was considered the founder of gymnastics and sponsors of patriotic education, on the other hand, his ideas were increasingly regarded as the basis for political extremism.

In the context of German history and the local history of Rixdorf and Neukölln, Holsten also referred to the critical perspectives that are addressed in the discussion about the Jahn monument in Hasenheide. This discussion is an important part of the exhibition “Think of Jahn - A contribution to the discussion about the Jahn monument in Hasenheide”, which celebrated its last day on September 28, 2025.

Jahn's influence on society

Friedrich Ludwig Jahn's ideas shaped the social and cultural life in Germany in the 19th and 20th centuries. His views on German unity and folklore led to considerable political tensions and contributed to the creation of organizations such as the Lützovian Freikorps and the fraternities, such as The BPB represent.

The “fatherland gymnastics movement” initiated by Jahn was not only a sports program, but also part of a political agenda that was deeply rooted in the ideas of national pride and fortifications. His rejection of foreign and the resulting anti -Semitic tendencies within the gymnastics movement led to conflicts within the social movements of his time.

Although Jahn's teachings were interpreted in various political directions after his death - from German unity to ethnic ideology in National Socialism - his influence on the gymnastics movement and sports culture in Germany to this day remains noticeable. Jahn's message, which was originally intended for national education, has spread beyond the borders of Germany and shapes sports culture in many countries.

In the Federal Republic of Germany, gymnastics have also become an important part of extra -curricular education after the historical upheavals and promotes the principle of “sport for everyone”. Jahn's heir lives on in many social aspects, even if his complex history keeps leading to discussions.