1.1b To what extent was the system of government in the GDR democratic? Flashcards
What was the Volkskammer?
The People’s Chamber
Give 2 democratic features of the Volkskammer
1) There were other political parties
2) Elections were held which determined the power of smaller parties
Give 3 ways in which the Volkskammer wasn’t democratic
1) Number of seats was predetermined
2) The ballot paper contained only 1 name
3) To not give your vote had to be done publicly
What was the Landerkammer?
The State Chamber
How is the Landerkammer democratic?
It’s made up of representatives from 5 historic states
Give 3 ways in which the Landerkammer isn’t democratic
1) Was later abolished and replaced by 14 Bezirke under control of SED officers
2) Acted as a rubber stamp and didn’t VETO any laws
3) Chosen on a predetermined basis
Give 3 ways that the 1949 constitution was democratic
1) Elections held
2) Proportional representation
3) A choice of political party
How was the 1949 constitution not democratic?
The head of state was a purely ceremonial role
How was the SED democratic?
Power was extended to the general population through social organisations
What organisations had power spread to them from the SED?
FDJ
Democratic Women’s Federation
Give 2 ways that Ulbricht’s dominance was undemocratic
1) Had control over the Central Committee as First Secretary
2) Conducted mass purges in 1951 to remove his opposition
