Care for the resistance

• Date: 04 June - 25 July
• Location: Nationaal Archief

What happened to resistance fighters after the Second World War? And who cared for them and their surviving relatives? In the exhibition *Care for the Resistance*, you will discover how the 1940-1945 Foundation has been dedicated to caring for resistance fighters and their families for over eighty years.

Stichting 1940-1945 

In the autumn of 1944, representatives of various resistance organizations met in the deepest secrecy. They established a foundation for postwar support to the families of resistance fighters who had died and to those who had developed physical or psychological problems as a result of their resistance work. The name eventually became *Stichting 1940-1945*.

Exhibition

In *Care for the Resistance*, posters, brochures, and stamps show how the Foundation raised millions shortly after the war. This money was used, among other things, for convalescent homes to accommodate resistance fighters. Space was also made for this group at Paleis het Loo. As long as Queen Wilhelmina is not inconvenienced by it, a report from the National Archives collection states. During that time, the Foundation was also involved in the reburial of fallen resistance members, such as Hannie Schaft.

Personal histories of former resistance fighters and their surviving relatives form the basis of the exhibition. The Foundation offers them financial and emotional support, organizes outings and holiday weeks, and facilitates contact between fellow sufferers. Many are also involved as volunteers.

Care for the Resistance shows how the Foundation's focus changes over the years. For example, several internal disputes arise. During the Cold War, the question arises whether communist resistance fighters are entitled to a pension. And when those who escaped to England are allowed to apply for a pension from the Foundation, the question arises whether this also applies to Jewish those who escaped to England: are they to be considered part of the resistance, or refugees?

Collection of the National Archives

Care for the Resistance was previously on display at the Resistance Museum. The exhibition has now been enriched with archival documents from the collection of the National Archives.

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