then why on two occasions in the 20 century were the german people held accountable for european wars?
First of all, the German people did NOT do everything within their power to usurp Hitler and the Nazis -- in fact as I believe it was Capt. who said, by and large they were all quite eager to follow. And referring to both wars as "European Wars" is inaccurate. The first certainly was for the most part, but the second encompassed America, Canada, Japan, Philippines, Indonesia, Australia and so on. They were called "World Wars" for a reason.
Secondly, how can you even compare being held responsible for a President's actions while voting against him/her with Nazi War crimes and the reparations made by the German people? This isn't even comparing apples and oranges. It is more like comparing apples and lawn chairs.
And yes, I'm telling you you're absolutely wrong, but not in order to be an ass. If you agree that you are to be held accountable for Howard's actions because you are Australian, then I suppose you've got a hell of a lot of apologies and reparations to make towards Asian people and Muslims who have been treated pretty horribly by the Howard government, no?
If this is the case, you'd better get busy!
