German Genius: The Stories Behind Jeans, Cars, Teddy Bears & Porcelain (ONLINE)
OSHR 6184Discover the surprising German roots of some of the world's most beloved innovations: blue jeans, teddy bears, fine porcelain, and the automobile. In this lively online course, German historian Anette Isaacs introduces the visionaries behind these iconic creations, including Levi Strauss, Margarete Steiff, the alchemists of Meissen's white gold, and Bertha Benz, the daring pioneer who completed the first long-distance automobile journey—demonstrating that innovation is fueled by both courage and creativity. Join Anette for a fascinating exploration of history, ingenuity, and the remarkable German minds whose ideas shaped fashion, childhood, luxury, and transportation.
Anette Isaacs, German-born and raised, is a historian and public educator who has presented hundreds of programs on more than 50 different topics pertaining to her native country's history, politics, and culture throughout the United States. She holds master's degrees in American studies, political science, and history and is currently serving as the Director of OLLI at Florida International University (FIU) in Miami, Florida.
Notes
- A current OLLI membership is required to register for all courses and lectures.
- If you do not have a Fall 2026 membership, one will be added to your cart at checkout.
- OLLI membership fees and course tuition are critical to the Institute's sustainability and are non-refundable.
