Prussia-a nation that was part of what is today eastern Germany-was dissolved by the Allies as a country shortly after World War II because it was viewed as a militaristic and reactionary power contributing to the rise of Adolf Hitler.
Yet this year is labeled "Prussian Year 2001" as Germany suddenly rediscovers a passion for all things Prussian. Exhibitions and events describing Prussian themes are planned in museums and other cultural institutions across Germany.
Three centuries ago Frederick III of Brandenburg (near Berlin) had himself crowned Frederick I, king of Prussia. The state is historically regarded as the dominant force in the creation of a united Germany in 1871. Today Eberhard Diepgen, mayor of Berlin (the capital city of old Prussia), is a prime supporter of a plan to reconstruct the former Imperial Palace of East Berlin, a baroque castle razed by the Communists in 1953.
Prussian efficiency and military effectiveness are seen as sadly lacking in modern Germany. But the world cannot afford to ignore any significant movement in Germany in 2001. (Sources: The Sunday Telegraph [London], Independent on Sunday [London], The Scotsman. )
