Post-colonial research has shown how deeply these images are embedded in our social perceptions. They act as silent but powerful instruments that perpetuate certain narratives and make other realities invisible. But photographs are by no means one-dimensional artifacts. They offer space for reinterpretation and the opportunity to critically question the power relations they represent. A critical examination of historical photographs from colonial contexts is therefore particularly important.
This brochure with historical photographs from the museum “Müritzeum” in Waren, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern offers a platform to make the colonial traces in Mecklenburg visible. Jan Diebold has analyzed these testimonies of the past in detail and placed them in their historical context. The aim of this work is to show the colonial traces in our region and to promote a better understanding of the complex interrelationships of this period.
Teaching Materials
The colonial narrative of the African expedition of Duke Adolf Friedrich of Mecklenburg in 1905.
Photography played a central role in colonial power structures. Colonial photographs reinforced ideas of superiority and “otherness,” often depicting indigenous peoples as exotic or inferior, thereby legitimizing colonial rule. These images had a lasting impact on public perception.
Postcolonial research shows that such images continue to shape narratives today—but they can also be critically examined. The brochure, featuring historical photographs from the Müritzeum, makes colonial traces in Mecklenburg visible. Jan Diebold analyzes these records in their historical context, encouraging deeper reflection.
The materials compiled in this brochure are intended not only to stimulate reflection, but also to serve as teaching material. They offer teachers the opportunity to integrate this knowledge into current educational and social discussions. We hope that this brochure will make an important contribution to the reappraisal of and critical dialog about colonial history and encourage a reflective approach to our past. The brochure will be translated into English, and the PDF will be downloadable here or order the printed version here.
Please refer to footage on our YouTube channel for further insights and learning:
