Archive on the Move: Traces of Colonialism

The term “colonialism” is typically associated with the wider world, international politics, or even major German port cities. It refers to “the expansion of European countries’ dominion into non-European territories with the primary goal of economic exploitation.” The “products” of this colonial expansion—whether “colonial goods,” “human zoos,” or a Eurocentric worldview, racist prejudices, and notions of European superiority—found their way into every corner of even the hinterlands. Colonialism was thus an everyday part of local life. Even in a smaller city like Erlangen, it is possible to demonstrate how widespread colonial structures and racist ideas were—and how they continue to have an impact to this day.

We will explore this colonial history and its aftereffects during a city tour and encourage discussion about postcolonial action and thought. The event was developed in collaboration with historian Theresa Winkovich, who conducts extensive research on Erlangen’s colonial connections and will share her findings. The tour kicks off the City Archives’ new series “Archive on the Move,” which brings together historical traces in the urban landscape with exemplary archival sources. “Archiv auf Achse” is not a traditional city tour but rather an on-site discussion format focused on historical events and their lasting impact.

Time: Sat, Sept. 19, 2026, 4:00–5:30 p.m.

Meeting point: Pauli Fountain on the market square

Admission is free. Registration is required at stadtarchiv@stadt.erlangen.de or by calling 09131/86-2885, as the number of participants is limited (15 people).