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Books

Kleine Geschichte Hamburgs by Martin Krieger
This book gives a compact overview of Hamburg’s history from its origins (Hamburg/Hammaburg in the early Middle Ages) to the present. It traces how a small settlement developed into a Hanseatic city.

Inferno: The Devastation of Hamburg, 1943 by Keith Lowe
A comprehensive, deeply researched account of the summer 1943 bombing raids (Operation Gomorrah) — the worst firestorm in history. Combines archival sources, interviews with survivors and airmen, diaries, letters; vivid, human-centred storytelling. Often described as “the definitive account” of Hamburg’s destruction.

The End: Hamburg 1943 by Hans Erich Nossack
A powerful and haunting memoir written just months after the bombing. First-hand perspective of a Hamburg native witnessing the city’s annihilation. Not long, but deeply moving — often cited among the most important German accounts of WWII bombing from a civilian point of view.

Hamburg 1940–45: The Long War Against Germany’s Great Port City by Richard Worrall
A broader survey of the full Allied air war against Hamburg, not only the 1943 firestorm. Provides context about why Hamburg was repeatedly targeted — industrial infrastructure, shipyards, submarine pens — and how the city’s wartime role shaped its fate. Good for readers wanting a more strategic or military-historical overview.

Daniel Half Human and the Good Nazi by David Chotjewitz
A novel told in young-adult style, set in Hamburg during the 1930s and 1945. Addresses antisemitism, the rise of Nazism, and the war’s aftermath through the eyes of teenagers. Useful and accessible especially for younger audiences or school groups — it brings history closer in human terms.

The German Hansa by Philippe Dollinger
Widely regarded as one of the classic, foundational studies. It traces the League from its merchant-guild origins through its rise to a “great power” in Northern Europe, describes its structure, trade networks, member towns (including ports like Hamburg), goods traded, social life, and its eventual decline between the 15th–17th centuries.

Hanseatic Radiance by Miriam Georg — Romantic novel set in Hamburg at the end of the 19th century: a sweeping family saga full of social contrasts, harbour-life, and a tense, passionate love story.

Movies

Hammerbrook Blues (2023)
Documentary-essay on the district Hammerbrook — destroyed during the 1943 firestorm (Operation Gomorrah). Interweaves the filmmaker’s family history with the larger history of war, destruction and urban change in Hamburg.

Im Gedächtnis einer Stadt – Operation Gomorrha (2023)
Documentary marking the 80th anniversary of Operation Gomorrha. Includes interviews with survivors, aircrew, and witnesses, giving a vivid and human-centered portrayal of one of Hamburg’s darkest chapters.

World War II: The Blitz on Hamburg (documentary)
A film depicting the 1,000-bomber raid on Hamburg in 1943 — offers historical context, testimonies, and a dramatic reconstruction of the events. Useful for understanding the scale and impact of WWII on the city.

Soul Kitchen (2009) von Fatih Akin
A German film that captures Hamburg’s modern, urban, lively atmosphere — from alternative districts to harbour vibes. Great to show life in Hamburg today.

Gegen die Wand (Head-On, 2004) von Fatih Akin
Critically praised German film set in Hamburg. Shows a gritty and realistic side of the city, which contrasts with more touristic views — useful for discussion about social life, immigrant stories, urban change etc.

The Story of My Wife (2018/2019) by Ildikó Enyedi
A drama partly filmed in Hamburg — including in the historic Speicherstadt, at atmospheric canals, bridges and historic harbour-side settings. Good for showing old and modern Hamburg side by side.

A Most Wanted Man (2014) directed by Anton Corbijn
Based on the John le Carré novel, filmed almost entirely in Hamburg. A spy thriller deeply rooted in the city’s mood and locations!