Definition
Tradition und Leben (German for “Tradition and Life”) is a German monarchist organization founded in 1959. It promotes the restoration of a constitutional monarchy in Germany, the preservation of historical traditions, and the education of the public on monarchical and conservative values.
Overview
Tradition und Leben (abbreviated TUL) is registered as an eingetragener Verein (registered association) based in Cologne, Germany. The group positions itself as non‑partisan, yet it aligns with right‑of‑centre political currents and maintains contacts with other European royalist and monarchist movements. Its activities include publishing the quarterly magazine Tradition und Leben, organizing lectures, historical tours, commemorative events, and participating in public debates on constitutional and cultural issues. The organization also collaborates with international monarchist societies, such as the International Monarchist League.
Etymology / Origin
The name combines the German nouns Tradition (“custom, heritage”) and Leben (“life”), reflecting the group’s stated aim to integrate historical traditions into contemporary life. The phrase was chosen by the founders to emphasize continuity between Germany’s monarchical past and its present societal framework.
Characteristics
- Organizational Structure: Governed by a board of directors elected by the membership; holds regular general assemblies where policies and leadership are decided.
- Membership: Open to individuals who support the organization’s aims; members contribute annual dues and may volunteer in events and publications.
- Publications: Produces the Tradition und Leben magazine, which contains articles on German history, constitutional theory, royal families, and cultural commentary.
- Political Stance: Advocates for a constitutional monarchy modeled after the United Kingdom or the Scandinavian nations, arguing that such a system offers a non‑partisan head of state and safeguards national traditions.
- Activities: Hosts lectures by historians and legal scholars, organizes visits to historic palaces and museums, participates in commemorations of former German monarchs, and engages in lobbying efforts directed at legislators and public officials.
- International Links: Maintains affiliations with European monarchist groups, including the French Action Royale and the Spanish Real Instituto de Estudios de la Monarquía.
Related Topics
- German monarchy (the German Empire, 1871–1918)
- Constitutional monarchy
- Monarchist movements in Europe
- Political parties and organisations in post‑World War II Germany
- Historical societies and heritage preservation in Germany
- International Monarchist League
Note: Information presented is based on publicly available records and reputable secondary sources. No unverified claims are included.