Faith, Status & Borders: Understanding Historical Germany Through Church and State
To truly understand your German ancestors, you need more than just names—you need historical context. This four-part seminar series gives you the essential background to navigate German records with confidence.
You’ll explore what “Germany” meant before 1871, from the Holy Roman Empire to the German Confederation, and how shifting borders and political structures affected your ancestors. You’ll also uncover the vital role of religion in everyday life, why church history (especially the year 1555) matters for genealogical research, and how to use church books as rich sources for local history. Finally, you’ll learn how to interpret social status terms in church records—and why these small words reveal big insights about the communities your ancestors lived in.
Perfect for researchers who want to go beyond documents and truly understand the world their ancestors lived in.
You will receive access to the recording of four expert presentations and the respective handouts.
Price:
$95.00
Did you know that the German Reich was first established in 1871? This presentation will explore what was referred to as “Germany” before that time. We will uncover the rich history of the region from the Holy Roman Empire to the German Confederation, and what it meant for your ancestors
Faith has always played a central role in German history. An understanding of church history is crucial for any researcher. Explore significant historical events, their lasting impact on ordinary people, and how they have shaped society up to the present day.
The local church book is an invaluable resource for discovering more about your ancestors’ lives. Join us as we reveal the wealth of information it contains!
German church records contain detailed information about individuals’ social statuses, such as citizen, inhabitant, neighbor, and more. But what exactly do these terms mean, and why was status so significant? Let’s explore the importance of these designations and their implications for understanding historical context.
