Central Europe Yearbook

Genocidaire Alfried Krupp: The Implications of Memorializing a Criminal Against Humanity

Elizabeth Edwards

University of St Andrews

Abstract

This research paper explores the implications of naming institutions after convicted criminals against humanity, as seen through the case of the Alfried Krupp Wissenschaftskolleg Greifswald in Germany. It highlights the vital importance of incorporating survivor testimonials to direct the narrative and reveal the true nature of (in this case) Alfried Krupp's crimes, while questioning the acceptance of Krupp's name as a desirable brand for the Wissenschaftskolleg in Greifswald. Furthermore, the paper delves into the larger political failures in addressing these implications effectively and aims to initiate a discussion on the role of businesses in remedying the Holocaust's horrors and ensuring the appropriate recognition of Nazi crimes. Through historical discourse and survivor accounts, this paper seeks to foster a deeper understanding of the suffering caused by Alfried Krupp and the implications of continuing to honour his name. The methodology involves an examination of the historical context, survivor testimonials, and the wider societal implications of perpetuating the recognition of Nazi crimes through institutional nomenclature.