Na de bevrijding 1945 - 1946

This photograph was taken in the Netherlands by an anonymous photographer, shortly after its liberation at the end of the Second World War. It captures two aspects of the immediate aftermath: the opening of a public exhibition by the Resistance photo unit, and the formal military funeral of those who had died in the Resistance, including an American pilot. The image speaks to the crucial role of photography in shaping the collective memory of the war. By presenting their work to the public, the Resistance photo unit asserted its place in the historical record and helped to define the narrative of liberation. At the same time, the military funeral shown below highlights the effort to re-establish social order and commemorate those who had sacrificed their lives for the cause. The presence of an American pilot underscores the international dimensions of the conflict and the shared commitment to defeating the Nazi regime. Historians might consult archival sources, such as personal letters and organizational records, to shed light on the activities of the Resistance and the experiences of ordinary people during this pivotal moment in Dutch history.