A Disunited Front for Peace: The Experiences of Canadian Mennonites During the Second World War

Congratulations to Scott Voegtlin for successfully defending his MA thesis, "A Disunited Front for Peace: The Experiences of Canadian Mennonites During the Second World War" on June 7, 2023. His committee members were David Bercuson, David Marshall, and Joy Palacios (Department of Classics and Religion).

We asked Scott to provide us with some insight into his thesis and his graduate studies experience in the Department of History at the University of Calgary.

Tell us about your thesis topic:

My intention was to write about the experiences of Canadian Mennonites during the Second World War as a combined narrative, incorporating elements of both alternative service and military enlistment, in addition to the divisions between Mennonite leaders and their various Conferences. I have allowed the sources to speak for themselves, showing how and why the Mennonite community began the long departure from its non-resistant ideology, isolated-rural lifestyle and German heritage. I asked not only how the Mennonites impacted Canada during the war, but how it impacted them as a community.

What was the most valuable outcome of the Graduate program for you?

The job opportunities both within and outside the faculty. The experience of being a Teaching Assistant (TA), and assisting a professor with archival research in the spring/summer of 2022. Moreover, the connections fellow graduates and professors had outside of the University have proved valuable in seeing what potential jobs there are related to the field of historical studies.

What are the next steps/plans for you?

I am hoping to find a career path in the field of history going forward; however, as the summer approaches, I will seek out what opportunities I can in the job market. From volunteering at museums or charities, to working at libraries and archives, there are many prospects going forward.