Unveiling the Hidden Stories

When speaking about Berlin and its history one might remember Albert Einstein or Marlene Dietrich as for many other great personalities but what about the streets full of amazing women who also contributed to development of this city? In this article I will like to follow the paths of some of Berlin’s most inspiring women and show how they impacted different areas of life: arts, science, and social causes. Welcome to this powerful cause; let us embark on this noble mission of bringing out the world the lives of these remarkable persons.

The Empress of Pop Art: Hannah Höch

We won’t be able to discuss all of the artists and genres; therefore, let us focus on the beginning of our journey with Hannah Höch, a Dadaist, and the founder of photomontage. Höch was born in 1889 and therefore, the Berlin’s vibrant art scene of 1920s greatly influenced her art. Her collage art shocked the audience and undermined conventional ideas of women and gender prevalence. In order to further appreciate her work, you can visit Berlinische Galerie now containing plenty more of her stunning art pieces.

Tip: Immerse Yourself in Höch’s Art

There are always special exhibitions of the works of Höch when planning a visit to the Berlinische Galerie. In her collages and photomontages she expressed the zeitgeist and provoked the society. Give her the time of day and listen to the virtue of art with regard to the cultural facet that she portrays.

Nobel Prize-Winning Scientist: Lise Meitner

In the next section, we embark on the life of Lise Meitner, a physicist, who was one of the first people to identify nuclear fission. An Austrian physicist Lise Meitner was born in 1878 in Vienna who later relocated to Berlin for further scientific practice. Ladies started achieving feats in science after difficult moments caused by gender discrimination, and she became a pioneer in the area of nuclear physics. One way you can be honoured to have such a woman is through visiting Hahn-Meitner-Institut, the research institute that was named after her in conjunction with Otto Hahn.

Tip: Experience the Science Talk or Workshop

Any notice of science talks or workshop initiated by the Hahn-Meitner-Institut should be vigilantly monitored. They represent a chance to get a better grasp of critical aspects of nuclear physics alongside an ability to discuss various issues with top scientists if you are lucky to be chosen. Familiarize yourselves with a variety of concerned information and ideas of atomic science through these learning and fun experiences.

Fighting for Equality: Clara Zetkin

It is now time to focus on one of the most important leaders of the struggle for women’s rights – Clara Zetkin. Zetkin, born in 1857, was the co-founder of The International Women’s Day or also a staunch supporter of suffragettes. In order to pay tribute to her achievements, take a short rest at the Clara-Zetkin-Park, a small park which is perfectly suitable for thinking about not easy work of Clara Zetkin for the improvement of the status of women in the society.

Tip: Join International Women ‘s Day Programmes

There are several activities in Berlin each year to mark the International Women’s Day. Be a participant during parades and engage in debate to support other’s call to be equal. This is a great chance to stand for women’s rights and to learn more about modern difficulties of women all around the world.

Berlin’s Literary Figure: Anna Seghers

The tour would not be total without recognising Anna Seghers, a German writer, and social justice campaigner. Seghers was born in 1900; she also wrote great literature through which she was able to explain topics of cogs in the wheel of society and political arenas of her time. To find a link with her spirit, it is suggested to visit the archive of Anna Seghers in the Berlin Academy of Arts.

Tip: Go to Readings and Literary Events

Keep an eye out for literature events which are happening at the Anna Seghers Archive and other cultural spaces in Berlin. All those who love literature would find it helpful and enjoyable to get insights into Seghers’ colourful narration. Such events are usually a good chance to find and talk to authors, academics, or even fellow literature lovers.

Empowering the LGBTQ+ Community: Lilli-Henoch-Sportplatz

Finally, let us speak about athletic wonder Lilli Henoch, 1899-born lady who has been participating in various kinds of sport. Henoch was a Jewish woman and she had to endure suffering when the nationalist socialist Government rose in Germany. Today, you can continue her legacy by going to the Lilli-Henoch-Sportplatz in Berlin: it is a sports complex named in her honour. This legendary place honors her great accomplishments as well as a triumph of the whole queer community.

Tip: Participate in an LGBTQ+ Sports Organisation

If you are interested in sporting activities and would wish to advocate for the equal rights of the LGBTQ+ athletes, you can be part of the of the friendly organization for the culture in Berlin. These groups create an environment that is safe and inclusive for people, where people can exercise, meet new people and feel welcomed no matter of their background. Be active in combating discrimination and supporting solidarity of the sports society.

Final Thoughts

This way, we can always learn a lot about the lives of Berlin’s famous women and also about stories that are hidden and may not be so well known. All these incredible people defined Berlin as a cultural, scientific, and societal capital. When you are out and about don’t miss out the areas that have been set aside to commemorate them. In so doing, we will be able to follow suite and keep their memories alive and classes going forward as we prepare for other battles.