Mar 8 • 12:38 UTC 🇩🇪 Germany SZ

Franz Josef Strauß and His Travels: "If You Are Blown Up, You Get a State Funeral"

The article discusses an event honoring the travels of the significant German politician Franz Josef Strauß, highlighting his extensive journeys and political anecdotes from his time.

The article highlights a recent event organized by the Hanns-Seidel-Stiftung, commemorating the travels of Franz Josef Strauß on the occasion of "Tag der Archive" (Day of Archives). It emphasizes the blend of Strauß's personal and political life, noting that his journeys were not merely political engagements but also marked by personal adventures. Numerous anecdotes from both contemporaries and archived materials bring to life the legacy of Strauß and the impact of his travels.

Strauß, a prominent figure in German politics, is remembered for his numerous trips, as recorded by the CSU archive that logs 600 of his political journeys across 63 countries. His travels often had a mix of political intent and personal exploration, reflecting his nature as both a politician and a private individual. An example cited in the article is his infamous trip to meet Mikhail Gorbachev in December 1987, highlighting the adventurous spirit of Strauß and his penchant for flying his own private aircraft during such ventures.

The legacy of Strauß lives on through his travels, with supporters recalling not just his political stance, but also the entertaining tales from his journeys. The event serves as a reminder of the importance of archival work and remembrance in understanding historical figures and their contributions. By fostering this dialogue, the Hanns-Seidel-Stiftung aims to keep the memory of Strauß relevant in contemporary discussions about politics and leadership.

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