Evert45 is an interactive site retelling the stories of WWII for the digital age.

If Instagram Existed In 1945

Evert45 is one of the most powerful, compelling websites I’ve ever come across. The site, put together by Dutch telecommunications company KPN, tells the story of a young boy named Evert. The story begins when Evert sets out to find his brother, who is in hiding. The story takes place in April 1945, towards the end of the war taking place all throughout Europe. The catch is that Evert is telling his own story through modern technology, posting photos on Instagram and providing updates about his progress via “vlogs.” This type of site could come across as cheesy, but it’s incredibly well done.

WWII Told Through Vlogs

All of the characters, actors, costumes, and settings used in Evert45 transport the viewer back to 1945. By viewing Evert’s Instagram posts and watching the blogs, it’s almost as if we’re dropped into the middle of the conflict and daily struggles that went on during the time of war. The use of modern technology to tell the story makes a historic lesson feel much more personalized. It’s a reminder that kids in 1945 were no different than kids today, and that the war had a tremendous impact on all those involved. Check out Evert45 to view the rest of Evert’s amazing story.