103 years full of wisdom: Erika Ziefle reveals the secret of her life

103 years full of wisdom: Erika Ziefle reveals the secret of her life

The life story of Erika Ziefle from Rathebur is not only remarkable because she recently celebrated her 103rd birthday. It is also a living witness to the changes that Germany has experienced since the early years of the Weimar Republic. Mayor Martin Weitmann congratulated the oldest resident of Ducherow with colorful flowers and wished her all the best for the coming years. Erika reveals her recipe for a happy old age: a solid lifestyle, health, no alcohol and loyalty. Their insights could be important not only for older generations, but also for younger ones.

In 1922, the year Erika was born, Germany was still at the beginning of a dramatic transformation. The Weimar Republic had just been founded and people were trying to deal with the aftermath of World War I. The loss of around ten million lives due to the war left its mark on society, expressed in hunger, chaos and political unrest. During this time of uncertainty, the first gummy bears, then called “dancing bears”, also saw the light of day - invented by Hans Riegel from Haribo, which helped the sweet treat become popular. The democratization of sweets was part of the social change that increased the affordability of luxury foods for the general population and thus contributed a small but important part to the new attitude to life.

The Weimar Republic and its legacy

The Weimar Republic, which existed between 1919 and 1933, was a time of change and optimism. With the introduction of universal suffrage and legal equality for citizens, the young democracy tried to create a modern society. Nevertheless, the country was strongly divided, which was reflected, among other things, in the rapid number of Reich Chancellors of 13 in 14 years. The disappointments and stumbling blocks that accompanied the Weimar Republic could not be overlooked, especially the high unemployment and the oppressive reparations demands of the Treaty of Versailles.

The first elections in this new democracy promoted high hopes, but the reality was often different. The “Golden Twenties” were characterized by an upswing, but also by dramatic economic setbacks. In this context, Erika Ziefle's life was modest but stable. She is proud to live in her own four walls, supported by her daughter Anita Rost and the Johanniter social service.

Sweets as part of cultural development

With the advent of gummy bears and other confectionery, a discussion about the role of consumer behavior in society began to unfold. Under economic and social pressure, many people began to look for small pleasures - and sweets like gummy bears became affordable for many. Doris Richter, managing director of a gummy bear shop, describes the nostalgic value that the small fruit gummy bears still have today. The consumption of fruit gum has now increased to around 200,000 tons per year in Germany, an impressive sign of the popularity of these little treats.

For her 104th birthday party, Erika is planning an ice cream dinner with the mayor. This tradition of community and gathering is another contribution to the secret recipe for a fulfilling life that she has developed over more than a century. So the continued fun in little things, combined with a solid lifestyle, is what keeps her young to this day.

Erika Ziefle's life shows us that despite the numerous challenges that Germany has experienced over the decades - both in society and in private life - the pursuit of simplicity, health and connection should continue to be the focus. Her story is an encouraging message that teaches us to appreciate the small joys in life.