Feldtagebücher

Feldtagebücher are a type of diary or journal kept by military personnel, particularly in the German Armed Forces, during World War I and World War II. The term 'Feldtagebücher' translates to 'Field Daybooks' or 'Campaign Diaries'.

These diaries were used to record events, observations, and experiences during military campaigns and operations. They often included detailed information about troop movements, battles, injuries, and fatalities. Feldtagebücher were intended to provide a historical and personal account of the soldier's experiences during the war.

The contents of Feldtagebücher varied depending on the individual soldier and the specific campaign. They might include sketches, diagrams, and photographs, as well as written descriptions. Some Feldtagebücher were kept by officers, while others were written by enlisted men.

After the war, Feldtagebücher became valuable historical resources for historians and researchers. They offered a unique perspective on the experiences of soldiers during World War I and World War II. However, in some cases, Feldtagebücher were destroyed or deemed too sensitive for public release, which limited their historiographical value.

Feldtagebücher have been studied by historians to gain insight into the physical and emotional toll of war on soldiers. They have also been used to analyze military tactics and strategies during key battles. In recent years, digital versions of Feldtagebücher have been made available online, increasing access to this valuable historical resource for researchers and the general public.