Berufswestfalen I und II

The book examines the cultural policy of the Regional Association of Westphalia-Lippe (LWL) during the second half of the 20th century: the promotion of historic preservation, state museums, scientific research on the region, and regional literature and art—that is, the preservation of Westphalia’s “cultural heritage.” Volume I deals with the shift away from the belief in Westphalia’s distinct identity, while Volume II addresses the recognition of the plurality of cultural life and, in particular, industrial culture. The traditional, rural, and agrarian image of Westphalia was never replaced by a new interpretation of “cultural heritage.” Nevertheless, toward the end of the 20th century, the association’s cultural policy played a significant role in thwarting the state of North Rhine-Westphalia’s attempt to abolish the Landschaftsverband Westfalen.