In late March 1925, Germany experienced a pivotal moment as citizens voted in their first direct presidential election following the Kaiser’s reign. Faced with candidates like war hero Paul von Hindenburg, centrist Wilhelm Marx, and Communist Ernst Thälmann, the election highlighted the nation's struggle between imperial nostalgia and the republican future. Preliminary results showed no candidate secured a majority, leading to a anticipated run-off. This election not only reflected Germany's identity crisis post-WWI but also served as a cautionary tale regarding political polarization, echoing into today's digital voting landscape. The past reminds us to safeguard democracy and recognize the importance of every vote.

In March 1925, Germany held its first direct presidential election following the death of Friedrich Ebert, marking a pivotal moment in its democratic journey. Citizens faced a choice among candidates like the war hero Paul von Hindenburg and the communist Ernst Thälmann, with preliminary results indicating no outright majority. This election symbolized Germany's struggle between imperial nostalgia and republican pragmatism amid economic turmoil. A century later, reflections on this event remind us of the importance of safeguarding democratic institutions and the implications of political division.

In late March 1925, Germany experienced its first direct presidential election since the Kaiser, reflecting a nation grappling with its identity amidst post-war challenges. Voters queued to choose from candidates like Field Marshal Paul von Hindenburg, Wilhelm Marx, and Ernst Thälmann, marking a pivotal moment in political history. The election illustrated the struggle between imperial nostalgia and republican pragmatism, laying the groundwork for future upheavals. A century later, this event serves as a reminder of the importance of democratic integrity and the consequences of polarization.

In late March 1925, Germany held its first direct presidential election since the Kaiser, as citizens queued at polling stations amidst a backdrop of economic turmoil and political uncertainty. The election featured prominent candidates like Field Marshal Paul von Hindenburg and Communist Ernst Thälmann, reflecting the nation's identity crisis between imperial nostalgia and republican stability. With no candidate achieving the required majority, the race was set for a run-off, symbolizing the fractured nature of the Weimar Republic. This event serves as a reminder of the importance of democratic institutions and the implications of political polarization, with echoes resonating a century later in today's electoral processes.

In late March 1925, Germany held its first direct presidential election since the Kaiser, marking a pivotal moment in the Weimar Republic's struggle with identity and governance. Citizens flocked to the polls to choose among candidates like Field Marshal Paul von Hindenburg, centrist Wilhelm Marx, and Communist Ernst Thälmann, reflecting a nation torn between imperial nostalgia and republican pragmatism amidst economic turmoil. As preliminary results emerged, it became clear that no candidate achieved the required majority, leading to a likely run-off. This election highlights the fragile nature of democracy and serves as a reminder of the importance of democratic institutions, relevant even 100 years later.

In late March 1925, Germany held its first direct presidential election since the Kaiser, allowing citizens to vote for their head of state. Amidst a backdrop of economic turmoil and political uncertainty, voters chose between candidates like Field Marshal Paul von Hindenburg, who held a slender lead, centrist Wilhelm Marx, and Communist Ernst Thälmann. The election highlighted Germany's identity crisis and the tensions between imperial nostalgia and republicanism. Today, we reflect on how the historical lessons from this era emphasize the importance of safeguarding democratic institutions and remaining vigilant against polarization and disinformation.

On 19 May 1925, two significant events unfolded: the birth of Malcolm Little (later known as Malcolm X) in Omaha, Nebraska, and the dazzling Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes in Paris. Malcolm, born to parents committed to Black self-reliance, would later challenge racial injustices, leaving a lasting impact on civil rights. Meanwhile, the Exposition symbolized the bold modernity of Art Deco, influencing global design and architecture. Together, these moments mark the intertwining of social revolution and aesthetic evolution, reminding us how pivotal history often begins in humble settings.

On May 19, 1925, Malcolm Little, later known as Malcolm X, was born in Omaha, Nebraska, in a household shaped by the Garveyite movement advocating for Black pride and self-reliance. His family's struggle against white supremacy and constant uprooting instilled a skepticism toward America's promises of equality. A century later, Malcolm X's legacy continues to influence global social justice movements and encourages reflection on contemporary issues like voter suppression and algorithmic bias, grounding today's debates in his powerful historical context.

This week we commemorate the birth of Malcolm X, born Malcolm Little on May 19, 1925, in Omaha, Nebraska. The son of activist parents, he faced early adversity due to their involvement in the civil rights movement, which would influence his later role as a leading voice against systemic racism. Celebrated as Malcolm X Day in several U.S. states, his legacy prompts reflection on issues of race, justice, and identity a century later. From his grassroots activism to today's digital advocacy, Malcolm X's impact continues to challenge society's progress toward equity.