In a historic first, the Republic of Tatarstan has launched a digital exhibition titled "History in Faces: Children of the War of the Republic of Tatarstan. A Special Generation," dedicated to Victory Day. This multimedia project showcases the memories, photographs, and video stories of children who lived through the harrowing experiences of war, as well as their descendants. The exhibition, which opened its doors to the public on May 9, 2025, is an essential part of the commemorative activities surrounding the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War.
According to the press service of ANO "TN-Nasledie," nearly all the photographs displayed in this exhibition are being shown for the first time. They were carefully selected as part of a patriotic media project aimed at preserving the historical memory of the Great Patriotic War. This initiative received financial support from the Presidential Grants Fund, emphasizing the importance of remembering the sacrifices made during this tumultuous period.
The exhibition features poignant images of children working at machine tools, gathering brushwood in forests, and digging potatoes in fields, among other artifacts. Adelina Pavlova, the project leader, expressed her gratitude for the participation in this patriotic media project, stating, "We sincerely thank you for your involvement in our patriotic media project. Each story is very unique and touching! Each story deserves attention and respect! This project addresses a very important moment in our country's history. All memories will not only serve as sources for research but also as vital elements for the patriotic and spiritual education of the younger generation."
Pavlova highlighted the emotional depth and uniqueness of each story, underscoring their significance in fostering patriotic feelings among younger audiences. The exhibition is seen as a critical step in preserving the historical memory of the Great Patriotic War and the post-war era. The generation that witnessed these conflicts holds unique stories that must be preserved for future generations.
The memories and photographs presented are not merely archives; they represent valuable evidence of a time when humanity faced unprecedented challenges. The personal stories of war participants are crucial sources of information about the past. They help people understand how the war affected the lives of ordinary individuals, shaping their destinies and worldviews. As noted in the press release, "These memories create a bridge between generations, allowing modern people to realize the scale of the tragedy and the value of peace."
More than 100,000 participants, ranging from the age of nine, took part in this patriotic media project. They explored family archives, digitized old photographs, and shared the heroic deeds of their relatives who survived the war and contributed to the country's restoration afterward. The project has garnered support from various partners, including the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Tatarstan, the Republican Agency for Press and Mass Communications Tatmedia, and the Regional Public Organization of Veterans (Pensioners) of the Republic of Tatarstan.
This year marks a significant milestone in Russia's history, as it celebrates the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War. Additionally, by the decree of President Vladimir Putin, 2025 has been declared the Year of the Defender of the Fatherland, further emphasizing the importance of commemorating those who served and sacrificed during this critical period.
Recently, Rustam Minnikhanov, the head of Tatarstan, presented awards to war veterans, acknowledging their contributions to the modern image of Russia. He remarked on the immense impact that each veteran has had on the country’s history and development.
The exhibition is not just a display of history; it serves as a reminder of the resilience and courage of those who lived through the war. It invites visitors to reflect on the lessons learned and the importance of peace in today's world. By sharing these stories, the exhibition aims to inspire a sense of responsibility among younger generations to honor and remember the past.
As Tatarstan continues to celebrate Victory Day, this digital exhibition stands out as a poignant tribute to the children of war, their experiences, and the legacies they have left behind. It underscores the collective memory of a generation that faced unimaginable hardships and the ongoing effort to keep their stories alive for future generations.
For those interested in viewing the exhibition, photographs and additional materials are available online, allowing a wider audience to engage with this important historical project. The initiative not only preserves the memories of the past but also fosters a sense of unity and understanding among all who visit.
In conclusion, the digital exhibition "History in Faces: Children of the War of the Republic of Tatarstan. A Special Generation" is a significant contribution to the preservation of historical memory, offering an emotional and educational experience that resonates with all who encounter it. It highlights the importance of remembering the sacrifices of the past while inspiring future generations to value peace and unity.
