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So, hotprinzessin, if Germany has learned its' lessons from years gone by, then why is there still such a large undercurrent of Naziism in your country? Xenophobia is rampant yet and is seen popping its' ugly little head up every election.
...as if we have no ***** here in the USA. (I knew a few wannabes in high school)
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Mind you, that doesn't mean I think that the Fourth Reich is an impending danger, but let's face it, the German people are militaristic by nature and that will forever sit in the back of all their European neighbor's minds.
...How many countries have we invaded lately?
As to the rest, I agree to a point. Germany does have a jaded past and many horrible things were brought about by previous governments there. I agree that it is sometimes healthy (and fun) to bring up the cultural stereotypes. (especially when it is done in an unbiased manner - Per Nobby's post)
However...
Most of the Germans alive today (and probably all on these forums) had absolutely nothing to do with WWII and its surrounding attrocities. Unfortunately, many (English and American) people choose to ignore this fact and bring up this sh*t over and over again. There is even a question on our landing card asking if incoming (foreign/German) travellers have ever had anything to do with the WWII *****. This gets really tiresome after a lifetime.
From what I saw in Germany, it is even difficult for the culture to show nationalism. If you ever travel to Germany, look around. Look for their flag, either on houses or clothing. You will find for more American, British, and Italian referances. I am not trying to attack the forum here, just bring an added perspective. Dinner for One, Kraut, lederhosen, big manly women (mostly not true), and nut huggers (yuck!) ARE funny! Millions of people gassed and killed - NOT funny after a lifetime hearing about it. Naziism is such an easy target - how can a German respond...
Now for the context. As stated in another thread, I lived in Germany for five years. My wife is German. I am a WWII history buff - visted Dachau, Dover castle, a destroyed bunker or two, and several museums while living abroad. She HATES averything WWII with a passion. It is not that she is offended by the remarks, but they sadden her. She would probably never post here because she has a thin skin.
So next time you poke fun at a German...think for a moment. Of course, if they bring it up, then all is fair. I used to work with a guy who reminded us (jokingly) of Hitler's birthday.
This is getting really long, but I have an additional historical footnote or two:
USA - Think about what our ancestors did to the Native Americans.
USA - How 'bout that Slavery
UK - Ireland (Didn't you watch Braveheart??? - Duh) ;P
UK - Colonization was hard on the native cultures in general. Australian Aboriginals seemed to have a particularly rough time of at at the hands of early settlers.
Viel Glueck und willkommen Prinzessin! Ich habe doch Dinner for One erstmals in Deutschland gesehen.
