Among the contemporary historical research institutions in the Federal Republic of Germany, the Institute of Contemporary History occupies a unique position. Since 1949, it has made a central contribution to the study of democracies and dictatorships in the 20th century. This is achieved through scientific projects and publications, an archive, and one of the large contemporary historical libraries, as well as political consulting and educational work: the latter is primarily carried out through the Documentation Obersalzberg. This commemorative publication contains a brief overview of the institute's history, summarizes its research achievements (a bibliography of all institute publications), and lists the individuals who have served as researchers or committee members.