Vertrauen und Politik im Alltag

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The German working-class movement was easily defeated by National-Socialism, while the numerically weaker French movement successfully mobilized against the radical right during a fascist threat. This study by Joachim C. Häberlen explores the social and political practices in Leipzig and Lyon at the end of the Weimar and Third French Republics, respectively. It focuses on the roles of trust and distrust within these movements and the complex effects of their politicization in local contexts. Utilizing a wide range of primary sources from various archives, the study paints a vivid picture of workers' lives and grassroots politics in both cities. The comparative analysis reveals significant differences that explain the contrasting outcomes of their struggles. In Leipzig, deep-seated distrust hindered effective mobilization against the Nazis, and the politicization of the movement exacerbated existing conflicts between Social Democrats and Communists, leading many workers to disengage from politics. Conversely, in Lyon, workers managed to overcome distrust, and the politicization during the rise of the Popular Front initially fostered unity. However, the increasing politicization of social practices, such as strikes, ultimately contributed to the decline of the Popular Front.