History meets society

In October 2018, the Centre took part in the “Rendez-vous de l’histoire” in Blois, a major forum for historians, researchers and history enthusiasts. At this event, a C²DH team presented the Centre’s activities and the results of recent research projects, highlighting the use of digital tools in historical research. At the C²DH stand, immersive virtual reality sessions were held to introduce people to the many potential ways that digital technologies can be applied to public history. And as part of the “Lab for teachers and researchers”, a dedicated space to discuss issues related to humanities teaching and research and explore innovative approaches, the C²DH led a workshop entitled “Images – a powerful but complex historical medium”.

The Forum Z series (Z for Zeitgeschichte, or contemporary history), launched in 2017, is now an integral part of the Centre’s identity. These open conferences in a variety of formats are designed to move away from the traditional academic framework and present questions related to contemporary history to a wider audience. In 2018, the C²DH held four Forum Z events, two of which were granted the European Commission label “2018 European Year of Cultural Heritage”. The C²DH also signed a partnership agreement with Luxembourg public radio station 100,7, which records and broadcasts all Forum Z events.

The C²DH’s historians are regular guests on radio 100,7, especially on the programme “ZäithistorikerIn”, either to present their research subjects or to analyse topical issues from a historical perspective.