This presentation discusses the turbulent history of the former German states of East Prussia and West Prussia, now part of Poland and Russia, and introduces resources for genealogical research in the region. The evolution of German culture in these two neighboring Prussian states was surprisingly divergent. Insight into the social and political history of these states is essential for successful research in the area.
My Ancestors came from East and West Prussia – they have been prosecuted
by Brandenburg Hohenzollern princes, put into prison because of their loyalty to the
Polish kings. One ancestor had been city mayor of Koenigsberg – put into prison
because he refused to recognize the Hohenzollern as new ruling princes.
Thank you to Ute. Extremely interesting presentation of a very complex subject. Will be very helpful in looking further into my partner Angela’s paternal line.
As my family immigrated to the US from these areas, I greatly appreciated this presentation. Is it possible for me to contact Ute for personal research?
Thank you
My two websites are shown on my opening slide of this presentation. You can find contact information on either website.
Very helpful on history of what happened to Prussia. Plus on how to track down family members that came from Prussia.
Ute Brandenburg’s webinar on “Genealogy of East and West Prussia” was a revelation. Having ancestors from this region, I’ve always found the research daunting. But this presentation changed everything. It’s given me the confidence and tools to tackle my family history with new enthusiasm. I’m now excited to challenge myself to uncover the stories of my elusive Prussian ancestors. Brandenburg’s insights have turned what seemed impossible into an exciting journey of discovery. I am grateful for this Webinar.
Ute was amazing as usual. She helped clarify the social and political history of the region which can be very confusing. Especially the changes in serf-landowner relationship/migration patterns. Even though I’ve visited the area, Ute provided a lot of context when considering my ancestors’ lives in the region. If she agrees to return, I hope she’ll help us know more about Jewish social history as it applies to legal status, land ownership, and accessing Jewish records in the Prussian regions. Thanks, Ute!
Good history lesson. Glad I stayed for the final question. I did not know that there was East Prussia, West Prussia and then Pozen was its own state – AND that’s where my forebears were from. Thanks!
Am amazing amount of information – well organized and well presented. Ms Brandenburg has a wealth of knowledge.