From Aniline to Forced Labour.

The origins and development of the German chemical industry

The exhibition at Freiberg University Library on the history of IG Farben explores the company’s origins from the mid-19th century onwards, as well as its role before, during and after the two world wars up to the present day – whilst also shedding light on the origins of a travelling student exhibition from the 1990s and 2000s. Please note: The original exhibits are in German. However, this website provides English transcriptions.

It demonstrates how students and chemistry student councils committed themselves to historical reappraisal despite resistance at universities. The focus is on the interconnections between the chemical industry, morality and politics, but also on the question of social responsibility among academics – then as now.

Housed in the University Library – a place of communication and exchange – the exhibition combines historical objects with student perspectives and invites visitors to engage actively with the subject matter. 

Exhibition dates: 16 April – 22 August 2026

We warmly invite you to the exhibition’s opening ceremony on 16 April 2026 at 5.00 pm on the 2nd floor of the University Library to hear a variety of voices on the exhibition’s key themes and to engage in discussion with one another! Please note: This event will be held entirely in German.

More information about Exhibitions and directly to https://tu-freiberg.de/en/ig-farben