Geert Mak, the acclaimed Dutch writer and historian, is set to present a series of theater lectures across the Netherlands in celebration of his latest book, Wisselwachter (Amerika-Europa 1933-1945), which was released on April 20, 2025. One of the highlights of this tour will occur on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at the Grote Zaal of Schouwburg Amstelveen, where he will delve into the intricate political landscapes of the 1930s and 1940s.
Mak first captured the public's attention in 1992 with his bestselling book, De engel van Amsterdam, and has since established himself as one of the Netherlands' most prominent non-fiction authors, winning numerous accolades including the Henriëtte Roland Holst Prize and being named Historian of the Year multiple times. His works often blend personal narratives with broader historical themes, a technique he has honed over his three-decade career.
Wisselwachter focuses on significant political movements and the complex negotiations between world powers during a tumultuous era. The book also offers an intimate look at key figures in American politics, including Harry Hopkins, who is portrayed as a pivotal character influencing the fate of Europe and the United States during this period. Hopkins, a former welfare worker from New York’s poorest neighborhoods, became President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s right-hand man, forged friendships with Winston Churchill, and negotiated with Joseph Stalin. His efforts were instrumental in the New Deal and the formation of the Allied alliance that ultimately defeated Nazi Germany.
In the theater lecture scheduled for May 18, which starts at 15:00, Mak will recount the story of the "switchman"—a metaphor for those who navigated the treacherous political waters of the time. Following the lecture, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a Meet & Greet with Mak, further enhancing the experience.
Tickets for the event are still available, and interested parties can find more information on the theater’s website, www.schouwburgamstelveen.nl. This event promises to be not only a celebration of Mak’s latest literary achievement but also a thought-provoking exploration of historical themes that resonate in today's political climate.
Mak’s new book has already made waves, debuting at the top of the Bestseller 60 list. It has been noted that while many in Europe may not be familiar with him, his work is crucial to understanding the historical context of the continent’s past. The back cover of Wisselwachter highlights Hopkins as a key figure whose influence shaped the trajectory of Europe and America during a critical time.
Despite his success, Mak's writing style has not been without criticism. Some commentators have pointed out a tendency towards clichéd language in his prose, which can detract from the depth of his historical analysis. In 2004, historian Bastiaan Bommeljé remarked on Mak's style, noting that his descriptions often rely on common phrases that may oversimplify complex historical narratives. He stated, "His perception of the twentieth century is undoubtedly intended to be journalistic-intellectual, but it often slides disturbingly towards a simplistic approach where good and evil are pre-established."
Moreover, Mak's earlier works, particularly In Europa, have faced scrutiny for factual inaccuracies and questionable comparisons. Critics, including those from De Groene Amsterdammer, have labeled this book as "not really successful," pointing to a lack of engagement with the latest historical insights. Such critiques highlight the ongoing debate over the balance between narrative flair and factual rigor in historical writing.
Before rising to literary fame, Geert Mak was involved with the Pacifist Socialist Party (PSP), which advocated for progressive policies during a time when the political landscape was markedly different. The PSP's positions included disbanding the Dutch military and ending NATO membership, stances that may have influenced Mak's later views and writings. Despite potential challenges to his credibility stemming from this political background, Mak has maintained a respected presence in public discourse, frequently appearing on talk shows to discuss current affairs in the Netherlands and Europe.
His critiques of populism and commentary on Islam have made him a significant voice in contemporary debates, though not without controversy. In 2005, he drew parallels between the film Submission by Theo van Gogh and the propagandistic works of Joseph Goebbels, a comparison that sparked considerable discussion and criticism.
As he approaches his eightieth birthday in 2026, Mak continues to be a prolific author, with a fortune estimated at 3.5 million euros according to Villamedia Magazine in 2021. His ability to blend personal anecdotes with larger philosophical questions remains a hallmark of his writing, a method that has resonated with readers and solidified his place in the literary landscape.
As Geert Mak prepares for his upcoming theater lecture, the anticipation surrounding Wisselwachter and its exploration of historical dilemmas reflects the enduring relevance of his work. The complexities of democracy, economics, and war he addresses are not merely relics of the past but resonate with contemporary audiences grappling with similar issues today.
In a world where history often informs current events, Mak’s insights promise to provide valuable perspectives that encourage reflection and dialogue among attendees at Schouwburg Amstelveen.