The Dark History Behind "Der schwarze Mann" in Germany
Did you know that in Germany, the „boogeyman“ is referred to as „Der schwarze Mann,“ which translates to „The Black Boogeyman“? While it might seem like a harmless childhood tale, its deeper implications reveal troubling racial stereotypes that have endured for centuries.
Let’s dive into this topic and explore how this narrative impacts society today.
Who Is „Der schwarze Mann“?
In German schools and kindergartens, children play a game called „Wer hat Angst vorm Schwarzen Mann?“ (Who’s Afraid of the Black Man?). The phrase is ambiguous but loaded with meaning:
- Is it a man in the dark?
- A man dressed in black?
- Or is it a Black man?
When taken at face value, the term could suggest any of these. However, the context and history make it clear that Der schwarze Mann often refers to a Black man—not just someone in darkness or black clothing. This distinction is critical, as it reflects and perpetuates racialized fears embedded in European culture.
The Historical Background
The origins of Der schwarze Mann stem from colonial-era ideologies, including the „turf doctrine,“ which dehumanized Black people and painted them as threats to white populations. Over time, this led to a narrative that portrayed Black men as inherently dangerous—a trope we still see in popular media.
Consider how Black men are depicted in films, TV shows, and music:
- Gang members or criminals.
- Drug dealers or addicts.
- Misogynists incapable of love.
These portrayals are not just fiction—they shape real-world biases and policies. They fuel racial profiling and discriminatory practices not only in the United States but also in Germany and across Europe.
Why It Matters Today
Even seemingly innocent traditions like childhood games can reinforce harmful stereotypes. When children grow up associating „Der schwarze Mann“ with fear or danger, it normalizes prejudice. This has lasting consequences for Black communities, who face systemic discrimination and marginalization.
Racial profiling, for example, is not limited to America. In Germany, Black individuals are often singled out by authorities, reflecting these deeply rooted biases. The consequences are tangible, affecting how Black people navigate public spaces and how society perceives them.
A Call to Action
Dear white people,
Recognizing these harmful narratives is the first step toward change. While being reduced to race-based generalizations may be a new experience for some, it’s an everyday reality for many Black individuals. The stories, games, and cultural symbols created to stigmatize us have real, harmful effects.
Mocking or dismissing these concerns only perpetuates an unjust system. We must work together to dismantle these stereotypes and create a more inclusive narrative.
Dear Black man, dear Black woman, dear Black child:
Your worth is not defined by these narratives. Take up space unapologetically. You deserve a seat at the table—you’ve earned it.
Explore These Perspectives Further
If you’re interested in learning more about how colonial history and its legacies shape modern Germany, consider joining one of our tours at Dekolonial Stadtführung. We explore these topics in depth, shedding light on the hidden histories and their impact on marginalized communities.
Our tours are a space for reflection, discussion, and unlearning. Together, we can challenge harmful narratives and reimagine a more just society.