Orange bitter, the Netherlands liberated!
An exhibition about joy, sadness and confusion after the liberation
On 5 May 1945, the liberation of the Netherlands is an official fact, although the first American troops crossed into Limburg in September 1944. By the end of 1944 parts of Zeeland, Limburg, Gelderland and Noord-Brabant have been liberated. Because of the fierce resistance by the Germans and the long, cold winter, it takes until May 1945 for the rest of the Netherlands to be liberated from the occupying forces. On 5 May 1945 the Germans sign the official capitulation in the Netherlands, but the Dutch East Indies have to wait another three months before the Japanese surrender on 15 August.
The liberation of the Netherlands is cause for much rejoicing and happiness among many people. However, besides these happy emotions, sorrow, confusion and fear of reprisals also play an important role.
- Visit Orange bitter, the Netherlands liberated!
- You can visit the exhibition at De Verdieping van Nederland from 28 April until 4 July 2010
- Read stories about the liberation at Het Verhalenarchief from the National Archives (Dutch)