New Ages: Austria since 1918

Austria can look back on a turbulent century. The proclamation of the democratic republic in 1918 forms the starting point for the hdgö’s updated main exhibition ‘New Ages: Austria since 1918’. The displays offer insights into the most important political, social, cultural and economic developments of the last century. History is told right up to the present day, and from a present-day perspective. Surprising objects, never-before-seen documents, works of art and interactive media displays bring contemporary history to life for visitors young and old. The historical rooms combine with modern architecture and design to create just the right setting for a journey through time.

In ‘New Ages: Austria since 1918’ we retell Austria’s history since 1918. We start from the questions which, then as now, have affected people’s lives and show how society and democracy have changed over the last 100 or so years in eight themed sections. The exhibition opens with a critical exploration of the founding years of the First Republic. Following this, visitors have the opportunity to delve into different topics arranged along a timeline:

1918/21: Possibilities at a Turning Point – The democratic republic is full of chances, even if many of them are not seized.

Out of the Crisis … Into the Crisis – Economic and social challenges defined the short period of democracy after the First World War.

Dictatorship, Nazi Terror, Memory – The Dollfuss-Schuschnigg dictatorship, the Nazi reign of terror and their lasting impact.

Remembering: The Nazi Past in the Present – The ongoing impact of Nazism on Austrian society to this day.

This is Austria!? – What can be considered “Austrian” is a matter of discussion.

Economic Miracle? – Economic policy after 1945: between consumerism and consensualism.

Borders Change? – Borders pen people in, keep them together and apart, and embody political and social changes.

Equal Rights?! – Individuals and groups have fought and continue to fight for recognition in society and for equality under law.

Make Images! – You can help decide how this century of images is presented!

Credits of the Main Exhibition "New Ages: Austria since 1918"