Basic Law and The Economic Miracle Flashcards
1
Q
When was Basic Law approved?
A
8th May 1949
2
Q
When was Basic Law approved?
A
8 May 1949
3
Q
What did Basic Law set out to do?
A
- Make sure a potential dictator would never be able to take power
- Although some of the Basic Law is based on the Weimar Republic’s constitution
4
Q
How did Basic Law help the economy?
A
- In 1943 5% hurdle or 1 constituency was introduced, increased to 3 in 1557
- Allowed only parties that were committed to democracy
- New agency to investigate anti-democratic activities - led to left and right extremists being banned in 1950s
- With a “safety net” of benefits Germany has an economic order supported by most workers and businesses.
5
Q
What is the ‘Economic Miracle’?
A
- describes the rapid reconstruction and development of the economies of West Germany after WWII (Wirtschaftswunder)
- Ludwig Erhard changed allies price controls and raised wages
6
Q
How was the economy affected by with the Economic Miracle?
A
- Economic growth averaged 8% a year compared to Britain’s 2-3%
- By 1955 unemployment down to 4.2% then full employment even finding work for refugees 3 million from, the GDR (German Democratic Republic) before 1961.
- Rising living standards made people satisfied
