The research project will examine the history of the Leopoldina during the period between the late 19th and early 20th century. Conceived as a “biography” of a scientific institution, it will consider the social, political and historical context of the academy as well as the distinguishing characteristics of its development.
Special attention will be paid to the specific role the Leopoldina has played in forming connections between different science academies, presenting in detail crucial differences as well as existing commonalities.
Using the Leopoldina as an example, the validity of the thesis set out in the historiography of the academy that there was a general loss of importance for the German academies during the first half of the 20th century will be evaluated. The changing interrelationships between science, politics and the public at large, as well as the work of the academy in international, national, regional and urban settings, will be explored in the light of the profound changes in the scientific landscape taking place around and after the year 1900. The focus of the research will be the development of Leopoldina during the Weimar Republic, the National Socialist period, the Soviet occupation and the early GDR, as well as the role of the Leopoldina President Emil Abderhalden.
