An Accidental Prussian

Book excerpt: While tracing her family history through wars, revolution and terror in Europe, and murder in America, Gabriele Miniter also extensively researched the lives of her Prussian ancestors in search of a connection to her own life of turmoil and heartache. In a fascinating memoir inspired by a curiosity fueled by a personal tragedy, Gabriele relies on information gathered from her own research and letters exchanged between relatives to chronicle the story of her ancestors who lived in a country that no longer exists. After disclosing her paternal family origins as wars began and ended, Gabriele details the tumultuous maternal side of her family as her grandfather transformed into a leading Communist who participated in bloody uprisings in Germany. As she leads others into their experiences that eventually contain a return to happier times, Gabriele shines a light onto how the contributions, sacrifices, and values of her ancestors continue to live in the genes of their descendants. An Accidental Prussian reveals the compelling family history of a German immigrant’s Prussian ancestors as they attempted to navigate through personal obstacles and global challenges.