From 16 April, the "Georgius Agricola" University Library at TU Bergakademie Freiberg is hosting a travelling exhibition on the role of the chemical and pharmaceutical company IG Farben under National Socialism. The exhibition will also focus on students' commitment to historical reappraisal from 1990 onwards - and a critical classification from today's perspective.
In the early 1990s, chemistry students from various German universities caused a stir when they set about analysing the role of the chemical and pharmaceutical company IG Farben under National Socialism and presenting the crimes against humanity to the public. They created a travelling exhibition, which has now been brought to Freiberg by chemistry students.
It is precisely because historical research into forced labour at IG Farben began at the same time that historians are now taking a critical look at the student exhibition - because the work of the young, dedicated students was not always scientifically accurate at the time. Nevertheless, the Freiberg University Library is showing it again in order to honour the commitment of the students and chemistry faculties against the resistance of the universities at the time - in the original, including context and critical classification. A website, which can be accessed via QR codes, offers commentary and background information. This was made possible by an interdisciplinary seminar on science communication as part of the Studium generale during the winter semester 25/26, where students and young researchers worked together with UB Director Dr Julia Meyer to develop the concept for today's exhibition and ensure its implementation.
Opening on 16 April, 5 p.m.: All interested parties are cordially invited to the official opening of the exhibition to hear different voices on the focal points of the exhibition and to enter into dialogue with each other.
About the exhibition: From aniline to forced labour. The origins and development of the German chemical industry
The exhibition in the Freiberg University Library on the history of IG Farben sheds light on its origins from the mid-19th century and its role before, during and after the two world wars to the present day - and at the same time makes the history of a student travelling exhibition from the 1990s and 2000s visible.
It shows how students and chemistry student councils have been committed to historical reappraisal despite resistance at universities. The exhibition focuses on the interrelationships between the chemical industry, morality and politics, as well as the question of the social responsibility of academics - then and now.
In the rooms of the university library as a place of communication and exchange, the exhibition combines historical objects with student perspectives and invites active discussion.
Exhibition period: 16 April - 22 August 2026
Exhibition venue:
University Library "Georgius Agricola", 2nd floor
Winklerstraße 3, 09599 Freiberg
