The concept of active cooperation has taken the place of opposition to the new form of government and of dreamy resignation entranced with the beauty of times past.

The quote "The concept of active cooperation has taken the place of opposition to the new form of government and of dreamy resignation entranced with the beauty of times past." by Gustav Stresemann reflects the political and social changes in post-World War I Germany. Stresemann, a German statesman and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, suggests that the old mindset of resisting new forms of governance has shifted towards a more proactive approach, where cooperation with the current political system is prioritized over idealizing the past or opposing modern change.

Stresemann’s reference to active cooperation highlights a shift in the way people engage with government. Rather than resisting change or clinging to nostalgic ideas of a better time, the new political climate encourages working together to adapt and shape the future. This change reflects a recognition that the past, with its idealized beauty, can no longer serve as a solution to the challenges of the present and future. The idea of opposition and resignation gives way to a more constructive mindset that seeks progress through collaboration.

The mention of "dreamy resignation entranced with the beauty of times past" is a critique of those who romanticized the past, particularly in the context of the Weimar Republic, which faced immense challenges in the aftermath of Germany’s defeat in WWI. Stresemann advocates for looking forward rather than dwelling on the losses of the past, understanding that true progress comes through engagement with the present reality rather than yearning for an unattainable ideal.

Ultimately, Gustav Stresemann's quote underscores the importance of active participation in shaping the future. It calls for a shift in mentality from nostalgic idealism or political opposition to collaborative efforts in navigating the complexities of a changing world. His words reflect his efforts as a leader in stabilizing the German government and promoting international cooperation in the interwar period.