Adenauer Era (1949-63)

Question 1

Who was Konrad Adenauer?

Answer 1

Chancellor of the FRG from 1949 until he was ousted in 1963.

Question 2

What does FRG stand for?

Answer 2

West Germany.

Question 3

What was the name of the new democratic system introduced in 1949?

Answer 3

The Bonn Republic.

Question 4

What were the differences between the President of the Bonn Republic and the President of the WR?

Answer 4

1. No emergency powers and can only be elected once
2. Not elected by the people (Bundestag and Lander)
3. Term reduced to five years
4. Powers dramatically diminished.

Question 5

Describe the structure of the Parliament in the Bonn Republic.

Answer 5

1. Bundestag- federal parliament
2. Bundesrat- federal council
3. Chancellor more powerful than President
4. Chancellor elected by the President and the Bundestag
5. Constructive vote of no confidence

Question 6

What was the benefit of the constructive vote of no confidence?

Answer 6

Helped the BR to avoid constant coalitions, and therefore the weakening of the government, that occurred during the WR era.

Question 7

Describe the structure of the electoral system.

Answer 7

1. Mixed Member Political Representation

2. Direct votes on laws- no referendums/plebiscites

Question 8

How were people elected using the Mixed Member Political Representation system?

Answer 8

1. First past the post vote for seats in the Bundestag

2. 1/2 seats given to majority vote and 1/2 given to parties based on proportional representation

Question 9

What were Adenauer’s main problems/aims?

Answer 9

1. Economy: recession, unemployment, inflation
2. Social: need for housing after WWII and to accommodate refugees
3. Politics: FRG still controlled by occupying powers.