Activities of the Soviet Military Administration in Germany to Denazify the culture of the Soviet Occupation Zone in 1945–1949

Based on a comprehensive analysis of scientific works and archival documents, the article examines the activities of the Soviet Military Administration in Germany aimed at denazifying the arts, literature, theater, cinema, and the religious sphere of German society in the Soviet occupation zone. The article highlights the main trends of the socio-political, organizational, and practical measures taken by the Soviet Military Administration in Germany to create a comprehensive system for regulating cultural life. Special attention is given to the practice of purifying culture from Nazi elements. The article also explores the mechanisms for shaping public opinion based on democracy and humanism. The article identifies the features of the denazification of culture in the Soviet occupation zone, which are related to the spread of communist subcultures. The role of German cultural and artistic figures, as well as clergymen, in the denazification process is shown. The article also highlights the correct and differentiated approach taken towards classical German culture.