The Shocking Truth Behind Hagenbeck's Ethnic Shows - What They Really Did to Sri Lanka's People!
Cruel history: The abuse of Sri Lanka in Hagenbeck's ethnological shows
Hamburg, end of the 19th century.
At a time of industrial awakening and a growing fascination with the unfamiliar, an institution was created that was to become a symbol of progress, but also of ethical controversy: Hagenbeck Zoo, founded by Carl Hagenbeck. Known for its revolutionary presentation of animals in open enclosures, this apparent progressiveness concealed a darker side - the Völkerschauen.
In these shows, people from different parts of the world, including from Sri Lankawere put on display in recreated "villages". They had to present their culture under often degrading conditions, reduced to exotic clichés and stereotypical representations. This practice, which was widespread in Europe at the time, had a lasting impact on the perception of "foreign" cultures and had a profound effect on the image of countries such as Sri Lanka.
In this article, we would like to take you on a journey into the past to shed light on the history of the Sri Lankans in Hagenbeck's Völkerschauen. We will not only look at the historical events, but also tell the personal stories of those affected and look at how these dark chapters are being dealt with today.
In the Shadow of Empire: Sri Lanka's Hidden History under British Rule
The late 19th and early 20th centuries were characterized by imperial expansion and colonial dominance. Sri Lanka, then known as Ceylon, had been under British colonial rule since 1815. The island was known for its rich culture, the cultivation of tea and spices and its strategic location in the Indian Ocean.
British rule brought with it profound changes: economic exploitation, cultural oppression and social upheaval. Despite these interventions, the Sri Lankan people preserved their traditions and cultural identity, which were shaped by religions such as Buddhism and Hinduism as well as centuries-old customs.
In Europe, on the other hand, interest in the "exotic" colonies grew. The colonial mentality was characterized by a feeling of superiority. Non-European cultures were often seen as primitive or backward, which provided the justification for colonial exploitation. This thinking was reflected in many areas, including popular entertainment such as folk shows.
Showpieces of colonialism: Carl Hagenbeck's controversial human zoos
Carl Hagenbeck (1844-1913), initially known as an animal dealer and circus entrepreneur, began organizing folk shows in the 1870s. Between 1884 and 1909, he repeatedly presented groups of people from Sri Lanka in Germany and other European countries.
One of the most famous exhibitions was the "Sinhalese Caravan" from 1885, in which men, women and children from Sri Lanka were presented in a reconstructed village. They performed traditional dances, played music and displayed handicrafts. However, these performances were often greatly simplified or distorted to meet the exotic expectations of the public.
The participants were degraded to an attraction, their individuality and dignity ignored. They had to live in conditions that were far removed from their real everyday lives and were constantly exposed to the prying eyes of spectators. The ethnographic shows were not for education or cultural exchange, but for entertainment and the confirmation of colonial prejudices.
Voices from Sri Lanka: Between longing and show - life behind bars
Personal accounts of the participants are rare, but some stories have been passed down. Prince Anura, a young man from Sri Lanka, became part of the Sinhalese show in 1885. In his diary entries, he described his fascination with the foreign country and the challenge of living in an unfamiliar environment. He reported on the curiosity of the visitors, but also on moments of incomprehension and loneliness.
Dona Maria, a woman from Sri Lanka who also took part in an ethnic show, later told her grandchildren about her mixed feelings: the pride of being able to present her own culture, but also the humiliation of being treated like an object. She missed her homeland and often felt misunderstood.
These personal stories show the human side behind the historical facts. They illustrate the inner conflicts of the participants, who vacillated between curiosity, economic necessity and cultural uprooting.
The echo of the Völkerschauen: Long-term consequences of a controversial entertainment
The effects of the Völkerschauen were lasting. In Europe, they reinforced racist stereotypes and contributed to the dehumanization of non-European peoples. The portrayal of Sri Lankans as exotic curiosities reinforced a distorted image of their culture that continues to have an impact today.
In Sri Lanka itself, the colonial era left deep scars. Participation in the people's shows was often a result of economic hardship and colonial oppression. Families were torn apart and returning home was not always possible or easy.
The after-effects can be felt in both cultures. While Europe is only slowly beginning to come to terms with this history, many people in Sri Lanka are still struggling with the consequences of the colonial past.
Colonial scars in the mirror of time: coming to terms with a problematic past today
Nowadays, the history of the Völkerschauen is increasingly being examined. In Germany and other European countries, the colonial roots of these practices are being critically scrutinized.
The MARKK - Museum am Rothenbaum in Hamburg dedicated an exhibition entitled "Half the world as guests. 125 years of the Völkerschauen at Hagenbeck Zoo" to reappraising this history. The exhibition shed light on the background to the Völkerschauen and gave the descendants of the participants a voice.
Scientific projects and educational initiatives are also addressing the issue. They promote dialogue between cultures and strive to recognize the dignity and individuality of those affected.
In Sri Lanka itself, there is a growing interest in looking at its own history from a post-colonial perspective. Artists, writers and historians are working to keep memories alive and honor the experiences of their ancestors.
From vision to reflection: lessons from the past for a conscious future
The history of the Völkerschauen is a reminder of how easily cultural prejudices and racist structures can shape entire societies. It shows the importance of treating other cultures with respect and sincerity.
It is our responsibility to learn from these mistakes. By critically examining the past and listening to the stories of those affected, we can help to break down prejudices and promote genuine intercultural dialog.
Deeper insights: Recommended reading to unravel Hagenbeck's secrets
To gain a deeper understanding of the topic, we recommend the following sources and further reading:
Eric Ames: "Carl Hagenbeck's Empire of Entertainments"
A detailed insight into the life and work of Carl Hagenbeck, including his role in the Völkerschauen.Pascal Blanchard et al. (ed.): "MenschenZoos: Schaufenster der Unmenschlichkeit"
A comprehensive overview of the practice of ethnographic shows in a global context.Anne Dreesbach: "Die Schau der Anderen: Die afrikanischen Völkerschauen im Deutschen Kaiserreich"
An analysis of the Völkerschauen in Germany and their social impact.Hilke Thode-Arora: "Around the world for fifty pfennigs: The South Sea expedition of Prince zu Wied 1898-1899"
A look at the representation of foreign cultures and the effects on those involved.MARKK - Museum am Rothenbaum, Hamburg
Current exhibitions and events on the subject of colonialism and ethnological exhibitions.Documentation Center for Colonialism and Resistance
A platform for information and educational offers for coming to terms with the colonial past.
