Booklet 5, Reunification : Recreating a Unified Germany Flashcards
(Reasons for flood of refugees from the GDR in 1989, Key People)
- Willy B_______, leader of the…
- Helmut _________, leader of the _____ after WB, then becomes ______________ of Germany from 199__-___.
- Ronald ___________, ____ President.
- H____________, leader of the ______.
- G______________, leader of the _________.
- Willy Brandt, leader of the FRG.
- Helmut Kohl, leader of the FRG after WB, then becomes Chancellor of Germany from 1990-98.
- Ronald Reagan, US President.
- Honecker, leader of the GDR (east).
- Gorbachev, leader of the USSR.
(Reasons for flood of refugees from the GDR in 1989, Ostpolitik)
- Willy _________ became chancellor of _______ in 196___ and pursued a new policy towards ________ known as Ostpolitik.
- By 197___, this improved relationship culminated in the __________ Treaty which confirmed the division of Germany as… and led to…
- This ended the terms of the _______________ Doctrine of 195___.
- By the end of 1980s, due to relationship between H____________ & K_________, the FRG and GDR seemed to be…
- In 198___, H____________ visited the…
- Willy Brandt became chancellor of FRG in 1969 and pursued a new policy towards the GDR known as Ostpolitik.
- By 1972, this improved relationship culminated in the Basic Treaty which confirmed the division of Germany as two legal states and led to economic cooperation between them.
- This ended the terms of the Hallstein Doctrine of 1955.
- By the end of the 1980s, due to relationship between Honecker & Kohl, the FRG and GDR seemed to be getting along.
- In 1987, Honecker visited the FRG for the first time and met with Kohl.
(Reasons for flood of refugees from the GDR in 1989, Role of Gorbachev)
- Gorbachev became leader of the _________ in 198___ and inherited a country declining…
- His concept of communism differed from _____________ and this would lead to conflict.
- Gorbachev introduced the policies of gl_________ and pe_____________ which were an attempt to make the ___________ more friendly with the __________, he also introduced… and paved the way for greater freedom of… (this all…)
- Gorbachev became leader of the USSR in 1985 and inherited a country declining economically and socially.
- His concept of communism differed from Honecker’s and this would lead to conflict.
- Gorbachev introduced the policies of glasnost and perestroika which were an attempt to make the USSR more friendly with the west; he also introduced economic changes and paved the way for greater freedom of speech and political participation in the USSR (this all accidentally weakened communism in USSR).
(Reasons for flood of refugees from the GDR in 1989, Role of Gorbachev)
- He reduced the amount of ________________ aid given to ____________ European (…) countries because the USSR had been…
- Gorbachev decided that the USSR’s ___________ budget was too large and this needed to be reduced in order to improve the…
- As a result, he reduced the number of…
- He believed these reforms would secure the future of _______________ in Europe by improving the…
- He reduced the amount of economic aid given to Eastern European (communist) countries because the USSR had been propping up their weak economies for years.
- Gorbachev decided that the USSR’s military budget was too large and this needed to be reduced in order to improve the standard of living for people in the USSR.
- As a result, he reduced the number of troops & equipment in Eastern Europe.
- He believed these reforms would secure the future of communism in Europe by improving the lives of the people living there.
(Reasons for flood of refugees from the GDR in 1989, Impact on GDR, East)
- ________________ had no interest in pursuing a more open society or making…
- However, the GDR had a declining ________________ situation; in the early 19____s, for example, the GDR borrowed DM__.____ billion from the ________ in order to continue the massive subsidies they paid to maintain the…
- This meant, however, that the GDR failed to invest in new…
- Honecker had no interest in pursuing a more open society or making economic changes because he believed East Germany was following the right path.
- However, the GDR had a declining economic situation; in the early 1980s, for example, the GDR borrowed DM1.95 billion from the FRG in order to continue the massive subsidies they paid to maintain the standard of living.
- This meant, however, that the GDR failed to invest in new technologies, industry and research which meant the economy was stagnating.
(Reasons for flood of refugees from the GDR in 1989, The rise to emigration)
- To ease the pressure growing within the GDR, H_______________ allowed a greater number of…
- He may have done this because it may mean they…
- From 198___-____, there was a massive increase in…
- By 198___, the GDR received ______________s applications from essential skilled workers to emigrate to…
- By the 198___, the number of East Germans allowed to migrate increased from _____________ to _______________.
- The number of ________ Germans allowed to visit their relatives increased from ___ million to ___.__ million from 198__-___.
- _______________ believed that if people were allowed to visit the West, they would be less inclined to…
- To ease the pressure growing within the GDR, Honecker allowed a greater number of East Germans to visit relatives in the FRG.
- He may have done this because it may means they leave which is good as the old and sick especially were costly.
- From 1986-88, there was a massive increase in East Germans taking advantage of this.
- By 1988, the GDR received 100,000s applications from essential skilled workers to emigrate to the FRG.
- By 1988, the number of East Germans allowed to migrate increased from 18,500 to 30,000.
- The number of East Germans allowed to visit their relatives increased from 5 million to 6.2 million from 1987-88 (but wouldn’t allow whole family to visit to ensure they would come back).
- Honecker believed that if people were allowed to visit the West, they would be less inclined to want to live there permanently.
(Reasons for flood of refugees from the GDR in 1989, FRG’s reaction)
- FRG didn’t _______________ this continued migration from the GDR because it felt that if the GDR became too depleted, there would be…
- Also, it was becoming increasingly…
- GDR citizens who travelled to FRG _____________ across Eastern Europe were encouraged to apply to…
- The FRG also reduced the benefits given to…
- FRG didn’t support this continued migration from the GDR because if felt that if the GDR became too depleted, there would be repression and a negative impact on the population of East Germany.
- Also, it was becoming increasingly expensive to houser the number of migrants coming from the GDR (as it was mostly the old and sick).
- GDR citizens who travelled to FRG embassies across Eastern Europe were encouraged to apply to move using official channels (rather than applying for asylum).
- FRG also reduced the benefits given to migrants on entry to WG to discourage people.
(Reasons for flood of refugees from the GDR in 1989, FRG’s reaction)
- However, the sheer number of GDR citizens allowed to visit the FRG simply led to more…
- The increased freedom of ________________ in the GDR was not matched by greater ____________ freedoms and it was made clear that freedom of…
- _____________ were occuring in the comunist USSR, ______________ & _______________, but the GDR remained…
- However, the sheer number of GDR citizens allowed to visit the FRG simply led to more people applying for permanent emigration from the GDR.
- The increased freedom of movement in the GDR was not matched by greater political freedoms and it was made clear that freedom of speech would not be introduced.
- Reforms were occurring the communist USSR, Poland & Hungary, but the GDR remained opposed to such a move.
(Reasons for flood of refugees from the GDR in 1989, FRG’s reaction)
- On ___nd May 198___, the reforming ________________ communist government announced they would remove the…
- _____________ was a permitted destination for East Germans (since it was also…) and millions went there…
- The opening of this ________-_____________ border opened up a new route to the _________ and during the summer of 198___, _____________s of East Germans travelled to…
- Under the terms of a GDR-____________ Treaty, citizens of the GDR caught fleeing into _____________ should have been arrested and sent back to the GDR but given the numbers involved, this became…
- On 2nd May 1989, the reforming Hungarian communist government announced they would remove the barbed wire fencing and fortifications along its border with Austria.
- Hungary was a permitted destination for East Germans (since it was also communist) and millions went there in the summer holidays.
- The opening of this Austro-Hungarian border opened up a new route to the West and during the summer of 1989, 10,000s of East Germans travelled to Hungary, hoping to flee to the FRG through Austria.
- Under the terms of a GDR-Hungary Treaty, citizens of the GDR caught fleeing into Austria should have been arrested and sent back to the GDR but given the numbers involved, this became increasingly difficult.
(Reasons for flood of refugees from the GDR in 1989, FRG’s reaction)
- At first, the Hungarians tried to stop…
- On ___th August, Hungarian officials said they would no longer…
- This relaxing of the rules lead to a greater number of…
- Throughout July and _______________ 198__, ___________s of East Germans lived in temporary…
- Moreover, East Germans headed to FRG embassies in different countries, e.g. _____________ East Germans camped in around the embassy grounds in _____________ on the ___rd _______________.
- The FRG began to close its…
- At first, the Hungarians tried to stop GDR citizens from entering Austria.
- On 9th August, Hungarian officials said they would no longer stamp the passports of GDR citizens crossing the border to Austria.
- This relaxing of the rules lead to a greater number of East Germans heading for the Austro-Hungarian border.
- Throughout July and August 1989, 1,000 of East Germans lived in temporary refugee camps in Hungary along the Austrian border.
- Moreover, East Germans headed to FRG embassies in different countries, e.g. 45,000 East Germans camped in around the embassy grounds in Prague on the 3rd November.
- The FRG began to close its embassies to dissuade GDR citizens from seeking refuge.
(Reasons for flood of refugees from the GDR in 1989)
- On __st ________________, FRG announced that together with the _______________ gov, it would accept _______________ East German refugees.
- ___ weeks later, the ________________ government opened its _______________.
- H_______________’s gov (east) banned ________________ as a travel destination but this simply saw more GDR citizens head to…
- The West Berlin embassies in ______________ and ________________ continued to fill up.
- Estimated that _______________ EG left everyday.
- It became increasingly difficult for…
- On 1st September, FRG announced that together with the Austrian gov, it would accept 20,000 East German refugees.
- 2 weeks later, the Austrian government opened its borders.
- Honecker’s gov (east) banned Hungary as a travel destination but this simply saw more GDR citizens head to Poland/Czechosolvoakia.
- The West Berlin embassies in Prague and Warsaw continued to fill up.
- Estimated that 9,000 EG left everyday.
- It became increasingly difficult for the FRG to cope with massive numbers.
(Reasons for flood of refugees from the GDR in 1989, Honecker and the GDR’s response)
- GDR leadership appeared to be at a loss as to how to…
- __________________ first solution was to carry on as usual, presenting the image that…
- In _________________, he decided instead to launch a verbal attack on West-Germany for supposedly…
- Contrastingly, he also declared that he was unmoved by those leaving the GDR as they were…
- Actions of the Hungarian government on the ___nd _______ 1989 (opening…) ultimately led to the…
- Combinations of GDR’s lack of __________ contrasted with the fresh ideology of G________________, this was __________ and shows his lack of…
- They tried to make political changes in ________________ 1989, but it was…
- GDR leadership appeared to be at a loss as to how to deal with the crisis.
- Honecker’s first solution was to carry on as usual, presenting the image that nothing was wrong.
- In September, he decided instead to launch a verbal attack on West-Germany for supposedly promoting the depletion of the GDR’s population.
- Contrastingly, he also declared that he was unmoved by those leaving the GDR as they were traitors.
- Actions of the Hungarian government 2nd May 1989 (opening its border with Austria) set off events that ultimately lead to the downfall of the GDR.
- Combinations of GDR’s lack of reform contrasted with the fresh ideology of Gorbachev, this was naive and shows his lack of understanding of the core issues own state.
- They tried to make political changes in October 1989, but it was too late.
(Revolution in the GDR in 1989 and its impact on the FRG, Actions of the East)
- Alongside the increasing refugee problem, there was a growing _____________ movement within the GDR.
- _______________ was taken ill and couldn’t fulfil his leadership duties from ____st August to…
- Mass protests in L___________ (the _____________ protests) occurred attracting 10,000s and then 100,000s.
- By _______________ 198___, __________________ took part in weekly protests.
- On ________________ return on ____th September, he acted as if there was no… and argued that…
- Alongside the increasing refugee problem, there was a growing protest movement within the GDR.
- Honecker was taken ill and couldn’t fulfil his leadership duties (and maintain his iron grip on power) from 21st August to September.
- Mass protests in Leipzig (the Monday protests) occurred attracting 10,000s and then 100,000s.
- By October 1989, 320,000 people took part in weekly protests.
- On Honecker’s return on 25th September, he acted as if there was no danger to the GDR and argued that people leaving the GDR were traitors and were not welcome in East Germany.
(Revolution in the GDR in 1989 and its impact on the FRG, Actions of the East)
- At the beginning of _______________ there was a ___ hour riot involving ____________ people in D____________ as East Germans tried to board a sealed __________ travelling from…
- This occurred because ________________ decided to allow _______________ East Germans camped in the _________ German embassy in ___________ to migrate to West Germany.
- They were put on sealed __________ to make it appear as if the ________ were expelling ___________.
- As it passed through the GDR, the people on board threw their GDR ______________ out of the windows and ______________ people tried to stop the train and clamber on board.
- At the beginning of October there was a 3 hour riot involving 10,000 people in Dresden as East Germans tried to board a sealed train travelling from Czechoslovakia through East Germany to the FRG.
- This occurred because Honecker decided to allow East Germans camped in the West German embossing in Prague to migrate to West Germany.
- They were put on a sealed train to make it appear as if the GDR were expelling traitors.
- As it passed through the GDR, the people on board threw their GDR passports out of the window (travel permits, people could then use this to travel) and 10,000 people tried to stop the train and clamber on board.
(Revolution in the GDR in 1989 and its impact on the FRG, Actions of the East)
- Rather than deal with the protests and offer __________, ________________ ignored this and continued with the ____th anniversary celebrations of the GDR’s creation.
- __________________ came to the GDR to give a speech and was met with applause from the ______ because he spoke of…
- _________________ also confirmed that the ________ would no longer prop up failing _____________ European states with monetary nor _____________ help.
- Two days later, ______________ people gathered in L_____________ to protest against the communist rule in the _______.
- Rather than deal with the protests and offer reform, Honecker ignored this and continued with the 40th anniversary celebrations of the GDR’s creation.
- Gorbachev (leader of USSR) came to the GDR to give a speech and was met with applause from the FDJ (youth group) because he spoke of reform (undermining GDR).
- Gorbachev also confirmed that the USSR would no longer prop up failing Eastern European states with monetary nor military help.
- Two days later, 70,000 people gathered in Leipzig to protest against the communist rule in the GDR.
(Revolution in the GDR in 1989 and its impact on the FRG, Actions of the East)
- By ____th October, the L___________ protests had reached _______________ people.
- As a result of these protests, the ______ sacked Honecker and replaced him with __________.
- __________ announced that he hoped it wasn’t too late to introduce ___________ and create a country that EG would be…
- By 17th October, the Leipzig protests had reached 100,000 people.
- As a result of these protests, the SED sacked Honecker and replaced him with Krenz.
- Krenz announced that he hoped it wasn’t too late to introduce reforms and create a country that EG would be proud to live in.
(Revolution in the GDR in 1989 and its impact on the FRG, Actions of the East)
- __________ government was just as inadequate as _______________ in producing the types of _____________ that EG’s were demanding.
- The _______ refused to make any changes that affected their position in control of the country (such as free ______________) and refused to accept legislation of opposition ___________ that had formed since 198___.
- They did attempt to introduce a new _________ permit but it was so complicated that the _______ parliament rejected it.
- Krenz’s government was just as inadequate as Honecker’s in producing the types of reform the EG’s were demanding.
- The SED refused to make any changes that affected their position in control of the country (such as free elections) and refused to accept legislation of opposition groups that had formed since 1989.
- They did attempt to introduce a new travel permit but it was so complicated that the GDR’s parliament rejected it.
(Revolution in the GDR in 1989 and its impact on the FRG, Actions of the East)
- By ______________ 198___, approx _______________ EG’s had taken to the streets to protest about the GDR.
- On ____th _______________, mass protests took place in _________ and there were calls for ______________ freedom, legislation, opposition __________ and unrestricted _________.
- The response to this was confusing and in a press conference on ___th _____________, S_______________ of the _______ announced a new policy whereby anyone with a…
- When the press asked the unprepared S_______________ when the regulation came into force, he replied…
- As word spread that the East Germany border was open, thousands flooded to the checkpoints along the…
- By November 1989, approx 750,000 EG’s had taken to the streets to protest about the GDR.
- On 4th November, mass protests took place in Berlin and there were calls for political freedom, legislation, opposition groups and unrestricted travel.
- The response to this was confusing and in a press conference on 4th November, Schabowski of the SED announced a new policy whereby anyone with a passport would have greater travel rights.
- When the press asked the unprepared Schabowski when the regulation came into force, he replied ‘immediately’.
- As word spread that the East Germany border was open, thousands flooded to the checkpoints along the Berlin Wall.
(Revolution in the GDR in 1989 and its impact on the FRG, Actions of the East)
- At ___:___pm on _____th ________________, the border guards at B______________ Bridge decided to lift the barrier between the ________ and ________.
- The Berlin Wall that had divided the city since 19_____ essentially ceased to exist.
- When the _________ German border controls collapsed, people started _______________ the wall since it was the most vivid example of division between East & West.
- Crucially, ___.___ million ___________ troops in the GDR remained in their _____________ and made no attempt to intervene, thus upholding ________________ promise that he would not use…
- At 11:30pm on 9th November, the border guards at Bornholmer Bridge decided to lift the barrier between East and West.
- The Berlin Wall that had divided the city since 1961 essentially ceased to exist.
- When the East German border controls collapsed, people started attacking the wall since it was the most vivid example of division between East & West.
- Crucially, 1.5 million Soviet troops in the GDR remained in their barracks and made no attempt to intervene, thus upholding Gorbachev’s promise that he would not use military force to defend unpopular communist states.
(Revolution in the GDR in 1989 and its impact on the FRG, Actions of the East)
- On ____th _________________, political parties in the ______ reasserted themselves (after having been effectively…) and said they would oppose the ______.
- The ______ removed all of its leadership in an attempt to show it was… and even renamed itself the Party of _______________ _______________ (PDS) under M____________ and G_______.
- This made no impact on the revolution was sweeping the East, within a week _______________ EG left for the FRG.
- On ____th ________________, FRG chancellor _________ took the initiative by announcing his… which he believed could lead to the…
- On 13th November, political parties in the GDR reasserted themselves (after having been effectively banned since 1945) and said they would oppose the SED.
- The SED removed all of its leadership in an attempt to show it was willing to change and even renamed itself the Party of Democratic Socialism (PDS) under Modrow and Guys.
- This made no impact on the revolution that was sweeping the East: within a week 17,000 EG left for the FRG.
- On 28th November, FRG chancellor Kohl took the initiative by announcing his Ten Point Plan which he believed could lead to the reunification of Germany.
(Significance of Kohl’s, Ten Point Plan, Kohl’s relationship with East Germany up to 1989)
- Pursued a policy of reasoned __________________ with EG that avoided any particular emphasis on…
- In ________ 198___, Kohl’s Chief _____________ Policy advisor, T____________, stated that the FRG’s main focus was working towards…
- Late 1980’s, FRG shows willingness to work with _________________ communist countries, e.g. _________________ made a successful visit to B_______ (West Germany) in ___________ 198__.
- Pursued a policy of reasoned accommodation with East Germany that avoided any particular emphasis on German reunification.
- In June 1989, Kohl’s Chief Foreign advisor, Teltschik, stated that the FRG’s main focus was towards stability and peace in Europe, not seeking to alter existing borders.
- Late 1980s, FRG shows willingness to work with reforming communist countries, e.g. Gorbachev (USSR) made a successful visit to Bonne (West Germany) in June 1989.
(Significance of Kohl’s Ten Point Plan)
- The events in late 198___ and the breakdown of the ____________ following S_________________ announcement caught Kohl off-guard.
- It was only mid-________________, as thousands began to leave the ________ through the open border that __________ Germans began calling for…
- Most FRG politicians believed reunification to be… and they were…
- The immediate reaction of the FRG was to provide ______ to the ________________s arriving from the GDR and to preserve some form of structured…
- The events in late 1989 and the breakdown of the border following Schabowwski’s announcement caught Kohl off-guard.
- It was only mid-November, as thousands began to leave the GDR through the open border that East Germans began calling for reunification.
- Most FRG politicians believed reunification to be impossible and they were astonished that the calls for this came from the East.
- The immediate reaction of the FRG was to provide aid to the 100,000s arriving from the GDR and to preserve some form of structured relationship with the collapsing GDR government (they didn’t want anarchy to break out in the bordering EG).
(Significance of Kohl’s Ten Point Plan)
- Kohl also announced that he would provide _______________ aid to the GDR if they were willing to make…
- Politicians from both East and West argued that the continued existence of…
- Kohl also announced that he would provide economic aid to the GDR if they were willing to make reforms to keep their population in the GDR.
- Politicians from both East and West argued that the continued existence of the GDR was essential to European stability (scared of war breaking-out).
(Kohl’s Ten Point Plan)
- In an attempt to seize the initiative, Kohl announced his Ten Point Plan which aimed to stabilise the situation by moving towards a…. then move towards…
- Kohl’s motive was partly __________, the ________ were polling low and he believed…
- On ____th __________________, Kohl made his speech to the _________________ in order to ‘regain…’, reversing his previous position of wanting to…
- He became the first chancellor in _____ years to call for reunification.
- He also promised immediate assistance for the…
- In an attempt to seize the initiative, Kohl announced his Ten Point Plan which aimed to stabilise the situation by moving towards a confederate state, linking the two Germanys, then move towards full reunification within 5-10 years.
- Kohl’s motive was partly selfish, the CDU were polling low and he believed that by announcing the Ten Point Plan, he would win the next election in WG.
- On 28th November, Kohl made his speech to the Bundestag in order to ‘regain Germany’s national unity’, reversing his previous position of wanting to maintain stability in Europe.
- He became the first chancellor in 30 years to call for reunification.
- He also promised immediate assistance for the GDR to stabilise the country (high risk of anarchy) and reduce the numbers leaving for the West.
(Reactions to Kohl’s Ten Point Plan)
- Kohl’s proposal was rather sudden for the __________ who were concerned about a reunified Germany’s membership of _________ (…)
- ____________ newspapers wailed at the prospect of a powerful, enlarged Germany at the centre of Europe and the __________ press talked of a third…
- Jaques D________, President of the European Commission, even suggested the _______ could become a member of the _____ as a second…
- In the GDR, Prime Minister ______________ continued to talk of preserving the GDR as a…
- Kohl’s proposal was rather sudden for the USSR who were concerned about a reunified Germany’s membership of NATO (given that it was close to the Soviet border).
- British newspapers wailed at the prospect of a powerful, enlarged Germany at the centre of Europe and the French press talked of a third Reich.
- Jaques Delors, President of the European Commission, even suggested the GDR could become a member of the EU as a second German state (and thus avoiding reunification).
- In the GDR, Prime Minister Modrow continued to talk of preserving the GDR as a separate state, even with the huge numbers of people calling for reunification and leaving for the FRG.
(Reactions to Kohl’s Ten Point Plan)
- On ___th _________________ 198___, mass demonstrations of ________________ people took place in L____________ with protestors carrying _______________ flags and calling for…
- Kohl visited D___________ (in the East) on ____th December, he received a huge welcome with ________________ people gathering to hear him talk.
- From ________________-________________ 199__, high level discussions began on how to best pursue the complex…
- Kohl believed the first stages would take ___ years but it took place at a pace…
- Germany was reunified at ________________ on ____nd-____rd _______________ 199__.
- On 11th December 1989, mass demonstrations of 300,000 people took place in Leipzig with protestors carrying German flags and calling for reunification.
- Kohl visited Dresden (in the East) on 19th December, he received a huge welcome with 100,000 people gathering to hear him talk.
- From January-February 1990, high level discussions began on how to pursue the complex financial union between the FRG and GDR.
- Kohl believed the first stages would take 2 years but it took place at a pace no one envisaged.
- Germany was reunified at midnight on 2nd-3rd October 1990.
(Reasons for Reunification, and fall of BW, differing levels of Prosperity).
- GDR’s economy had failed to develop in a sustainable fashion and was facing significant difficulties by the 19____s.
- The main industrial lands in Germany were in the R________ and S_______________ (both in the ______) which meant the GDR was mainly…
- GDR had suffered from __________ reparations imposed on it.
- It had a declining…
- The GDR was committed to giving its citizens a generous…
- GDR’s economy had failed to develop in a sustainable fashion and was facing significant difficulties by the 1980s.
- The main industrial lands in Germany were in the Ruhr and Saarland (both in the FRG) which meant the GDR was mainly agricultural and therefore less money was to be made.
- GDR had suffered from Soviet reparations imposed on it.
- It had a declining population.
- The GDR was committed to giving its citizens a generous welfare state which was becoming increasingly unaffordable.
(Reasons for Reunification, and fall of BW, differing levels of Prosperity, GDR had SOME Strengths)
- GDR had the most successful economy in… and the highest standard…
- Under leadership of _________________, who had wanted to placate the citizens, consumer goods became more…
- The GDR was the most advanced developer, in _____________ Europe, of…
- GDR had the most successful economy in Eastern Europe and the highest standard of living in any communist country.
- Under leadership of Honecker, who had wanted to placate the citizens, consumer goods became more widely available such as fridges and televisions.
- The GDR was the most advanced developer, in Eastern Europe, of microelectronics and computer technology.
(Reasons for Reunification, and fall of BW, differing levels of Prosperity)
- In 198___ and 198__, the GDR had to arrange huge loans from the…
- Honecker’s focus on…
- By 198__, the life expectancy of a GDR citizen was ___ & __/__ years lower for men and ___ years lower for women compared to the FRG.
- The GDR spent DDM__billion trying to create the world’s largest ______________ (lol), but it failed, HIGHLIGHT!!!…
- In 1983 and 1984, the GDR had to arrange huge loans from the FRG to prop up its economy.
- Honecker’s focus on maintaining the welfare state led to spiralling debt.
- By 1989, the life expectancy of a GDR citizen was 2 & 1/2 years lower for men and 7 years lower for women compared to the FRG.
- The GDR spent DDM1billion trying to create the world’s largest microchip (lol), but it failed, highlights poor leadership, they could have spent this money on paying back debt).
- Money spent on Welfare Bill in 1989 in 1989 it was DDM1BW, increased from 1980.
- The differences between FRG & GDR were obvious in television shows and in the contact between citizens since WG’s could cross the border more frequently to visit family.
(Reasons for Reunification, and fall of BW, differing levels of Prosperity)
- Money spent on Welfare Bill in 198__ it was DDM____.___BW, increased from…
- The differences between FRG & GDR were obvious in _____________ shows and in the contact between…
- The policies of _________________ from 198__ put _______________ under pressure to match his economic reforms in the GDR but this didn’t happen.
- In _______________ 198__, an SED report said that exports needed to increase by only DDM___ million in order to stabilise the country’s _________. This would require…
- SHOWS JUST HOW…
- Money spent on Welfare Bill in 1989 in 1989 it was DDM1BW, increased from 1980.
- The differences between FRG & GDR were obvious in television shows and in the contact between citizens since WG’s could cross the border more frequently to visit family.
- The policies of Gorbachev (USSR) from 1985 put Honecker (GDR) under pressure to match his economic reforms in the GDR but this didn’t happen.
- In October 1989, an SED report said that exports needed to increase by only DDM9 million in order to stabilise the country’s debt. This would require investment the country didn’t have.
- Shows just how tiny the economy is, this is not much money to get a country out of debt, yet they can’t even afford to pay it, USSR couldn’t help either, could have spent the money making microchip on this, POOR LEADERSHIP!!!
(Reasons for Reunification, and fall of BW, Actions of the SED/EAST/GDR)
- M___________ became the leader of the GDR on ___rd _________________ 198__, following resignation of _________.
- In his maiden speech, he promised a more open era for the GDR with __________________ & environmental problems being tackled immediately and a new relationship with _____________ Europe (in an attempt to stop the flood of…)
- He asserted that the GDR was essential to…
- ___________ German consumer goods and currency were flooding into the…
- Modrow became leader of the GDR on 3rd December 1989, following resignation of Krenz.
- In his maiden speech, he promised a more open era for the GDR with economic & environmental problems being tackled immediately and a new relationship with Western Europe (in an attempt to stop the flood of people leaving the GDR for the West).
- Her asserted that the GDR was essential to the stability of Europe.
- West German consumer goods and currency were flooding into the GDR leading to further economic chaos (LINK, economy & poor leadership & control).
(Reasons for Reunification, and fall of BW, Actions of the SED/EAST/GDR)
- M___________ also tried to replace the hated GDR ______________ police, the _________, with a watered-down security force, however, popular….
- This was further illustrated on ____th ________________ 199__ when the _________ HQ in _________ were stormed by protestors, this sign of strength against the regime showed that citizens of the… and one of the pillars…
- In a desperate attempt to save the GDR, M____________ announced elections for ___th_________ 19_____… (trying to make it so people ‘liked’ communism).
- Modrow also tried to replace the hated GDR secret police, the Stasi, with a watered-down security force, however, popular protest forced him to back down.
- This was further illustrated on 15th January 1990 when the Stasi HQ in Berlin were stormed by protestors, this sign of strength against the regime showed that citizens of the GDR were no longer scared of the regime and one of the pillars that had held up the communists had been removed!!!
- In a desperate attempt to save the GDR, Morrow announced elections for the 18th March 1990 (unique, not usually elections in the East).
(Reasons for Reunification, and fall of BW, Actions of the FRG, West)
- __________ German politicians played a key role during the election campaign by openly supporting _________ German candidates who were in the same __________ as them, implying closer…
- The FRG’s SPD leader, L_________________, encouraged GDR citizens to vote for the ______ in order to slow down the….
- There were fears that the current pace of reunification could damage…
- ________, in contrast, promoted the ______-led coalition called ‘_______________ for _________________’ and stated that the future of the ______ lay in…
- West German politicians played a key role during the election campaign by openly supporting East German candidates who were in the same party as them, implying closer unity between Eastern and Western parties.
- The FRG’s SPD leader, Lafontaine, encouraged GDR citizens to vote for the SPD in order to slow down the unification process so it could be carried out in a more organised fashion.
- There were fears that the current pace of reunification could damage West Germany’s economy.
- Kohl, in contrast, promoted CDU-led coalition called ‘Alliance for Germany’ and stated that the future of the GDR lay in reunification with the FRG.
(Reasons for Reunification, and fall of BW, Actions of the FRG, West)
- The results of the elections in 199__ saw a massive victory for the ‘______________ for _______________’ coalition with them winning ________ of _________ seats.
- The SED, now renamed the ______, only won _____ seats and the SPD won _____ seats (maybe because…).
- The GDR’s CDU leader, Lothar de ________________ (good friends with…), formed a coalition government with the _____ and League of __________ ______________.
- The success of the _______ clearly showed the desperation amongst the _______ citizens to reunify with the ________.
- Any calls for the continuation of the ________ or a slowing down of reunification process had been clearly…
- The results of the elections in 1990 saw a massive victory for the ‘Alliance for Germany’ coalition, with them winning 192 of 400 seats.
- The SED, now renamed the PDS, only won 66 seats and the SPD won 88 seats (maybe won less than CDU because SPD’s political beliefs are too ‘close’ to SED).
- The GDR’s CDU leader, Lothar de Maizière (good friends with Kohl) formed a coalition government with the SPD and the League of Free Democrats.
- The success of the CDU clearly showed the desperation amongst GDR citizens to reunify with the FRG.
- Any calls for the continuation of the GDR or a slowing down of the reunification process had been clearly quashed.
(Reasons for Reunification, and fall of BW, Crumbling of the GDR state)
- Using the mandate from the ___________ in the GDR, __________ in the FRG pushed forward with ________________ integration.
- Within ____ weeks of M_____________ taking office in the GDR, he and Kohl set a date for the ______________, ______________ and __________ union of the FRG & GDR.
- East Germans were allowed to convert DDM___________ into West German marks (DM) at an exchange rate of ___:___, a much better…
- The real currency conversion should have been 1:__ but Kohl wanted to ensure that GDR citizens could cope with…
- Using the mandate from the election in the GDR, Kohl in the FRG pushed forward with economic integration.
- Within 2 weeks of Maiziére taking office in the GDR, he and Kohl set a date for the monetary, economic and social union of the FRG & GDR.
- East Germans were allowed to convert DDM4000 into West German marks (DM) at an exchange rate of 1:1, a rate much better than the actual value of the GDR’d currency.
- The real currency conversion should have been 1:4 but Kohl wanted to ensure that GDR citizens could cope with the transfer to the West German economy.
(Reasons for Reunification, and fall of BW, Crumbling of the GDR state)
- This action (exchange rate) caused a complete meltdown of the _______ economy and __________________ rose and there was a sharp decline in…
- Even though the currency conversion was generous for the ______ citizens, they were not used to paying FRG _________ for goods and this was exacerbated by the fact that the ________________ state had been incredibly generous in the GDR and many…
- Moreover, there was a rush to buy ________ consumer goods which meant the market for…
- This action (exchange rate) caused a complete meltdown of the GDR economy and unemployment rose and there was a sharp decline in living standards.
- Even though the currency conversion was generous for the GDR citizens, they were not used to paying FRG prices for goods and this was exacerbated by the fact that the welfare state had been incredibly generous in the GDR and they were not used to paying for things such as healthcare, education and some consumer goods.
- Moreover, there was a rush to buy FRG consumer goods which meant the market for GDR goods dried up causing further economic ruin in the East.
(Reasons for Reunification, and fall of BW, Crumbling of the GDR state)
- Events outside the _______ then took over as __________ negotiated with the former allied powers (___ powers) about how best to… and the leadership of the…
- Due to the economic collapse of the _______, the date for ___________________ had to be brought forward much to the…
- On _______________ between ___nd & ___rd _________________ 199___, the GDR…
- Events outside the GDR then took over as Kohl negotiated with the former allied powers (4 powers) about how best to reunify Germany and the leadership of the GDR was largely side-lined.
- Due to the economic collapse of the GDR, the date for reunification had to be brought forward, much to the chagrin of the 4 powers who were nervous about a reunited Germany appearing in Europe once again.
- On midnight between 2nd & 3rd October 1990, the GDR ceased to exist and Germany was reunified. Kohl leader of unified Germany.
(Essay Q) How accurate is it to say that the GDR collapsed primarily due to economic factors?
- 4 factors :
- Differing levels of prosperity (economics).
- Migration from the GDR.
- Actions of the SED in the GDR.
- Leadership of Khol in the FRG.
(Reasons for Reunifications Acceptance by the 4 Powers, Potential Problems)
- USSR will likely be…
- Countries will likely fear a unified…
- Other communist countries may fear…
- People may expect the ______ to help economically.
- ______ & ____________ may fear Germany becoming powerful…
- USSR will likely be opposed to this, want some sort of reparations.
- Countries will likely fear a unified Germany as it will be powerful and has done bad things in past.
- Other communist countries may fear a domino effect (all turning to capitalism).
- People may expect the USA to help economically.
- UK & French may fear Germany becoming powerful economy in Europe.
(Reasons for Reunifications Acceptance by the 4 Powers)
- Kohls ______ Point ________ was a shock to the ___ occupying powers because he had announced…
- The main issue of disagreement was the _______ insistence that a newly unified Germany be a member of _________, (before reunification…).
- _______ wanted to maintain some ______________ over Western Europe by keeping Germany as a member and they also believed their membership would reduce any…
- Becoming a member of __________ would require an agreement by the ________, and this, given that _________ was effectively an anti-_____________ alliance would be…
- Kohl’s Ten Point Plan was a shock to the 4 occupying powers because he had announced the plan to the Bundestag without consulting them.
- The main issue of disagreement was the USA’s insistence that a newly unified Germany be a member of NATO, (before reunification, West Germany had been a member since 1955 and East Germany was in the Warsaw Pact).
- USA wanted to maintain some influence over Western Europe by keeping Germany as a member and they also believed their membership would reduce any thoughts of expansionist policies by future German governments in Europe, e.g. Kohl said he didn’t recognise the Polish border which worried them.
- Becoming a member of NATO would require an agreement by the USSR, and this, given that NATO was effectively an anti-communist alliance, would be tricky to achieve.
(Reasons for Reunifications Acceptance by the 4 Powers)
- Kohl’s ______ Point Plan angered __________ & ___________ who had major concerns about a unified and powerful Germany in the centre of…
- They feared that Germany would seek to dominate Europe economically and therefore…
- Both T____________ & M_____________ were against unification and Kohl didn’t help matters at a meeting in ______________ 198___ when he didn’t commit to maintaining Germany’s _____________ borders…
- Kohl’s Ten Point Plan angered France & Britain who had major concerns about a unified and powerful Germany in the centre of Europe once again.
- They feared that Germany would seek to dominate Europe economically and therefore upset the status quo which had ensued relative peace since 1945.
- Both Thatcher & Mitterrand were against unification and Kohl didn’t help matters at a meeting in December in 1989 when he didn’t commit to maintaining Germany’s eastern borders. The spectre of Nazi foreign policy reared its head once again.
(Reasons for Reunifications Acceptance by the 4 Powers)
- Britain & France both felt that the GDR could be propped up with ________________ assistance which shows the strength of their feelings on the matter, encouraging the saving a…
- Leaders of H__________, P____________ and I________ also spoke out against…
- Britain & France both felt that the GDR could be propped up with Western assistance which shows the strength go their feelings on the matter, encouraging the saving of a communist state.
- Leaders of Holland, Poland and Italy also spoke out against the reunification and the speed at which it was happening.
(Reasons for Reunifications Acceptance by the 4 Powers)
- On ____th _____________ 198__, the ___ powers met, for the first time since the 19_____s, at the ________ C________ Council.
- The ___________ Germans were unhappy about this because they weren’t ____________ and felt that the 4 Powers would discuss the future of G without ______________ them, gave unpleasant reminders of the d__________ at the Treaty of V____________ in 19_____.
- At meeting, USA declared it wouldn’t agree to unified Germany unless it was a member of…
- G________________ (USSR) believed that a reformed _______ might be able to save the GDR as an independent state despite the fall of the ____, collapse of EG ____________ and angry WG who were…
- On 11th December 1989, the 4 powers met, for the first time since the 1940s, at the Allied Control Council.
- The West Germans were unhappy about this because they weren’t invited and felt that the 4 Powers would discuss the future of G without consulting them, gave unpleasant reminders of the diktat that was the Treaty of Versailles in 1919.
- At meeting, USA declared it wouldn’t agree to unified Germany unless it was a member of NATO, it was believed this would be impossible to achieve since USSR would need to agree.
- Gorbachev (USSR) believed that a reformed SED might be able to save the GDR as an independent state despite the fall of Berlin Wall, the collapse of EG’s economy and angry WG who were moving quickly towards reunification.
(Reasons for Reunifications Acceptance by the 4 Powers)
- Kohl agreed to the _________ demands about joining ________ and he didn’t see this as a…
- Kohl’s bargaining chip was the failing _______ since it was crumbling whilst…
- Kohl argued that if the _______ was allowed to collapse, it would cause…
- The _______ (Bush) was becoming more favourable towards reunification since it was worried that WG might leave…
- They were also concerned about the collapse of the GDR on the…
- Also, the _______ leader, L________________ had been critical of _________ and, should Kohl’s plan of reunification fail, L________________ could win the election and then pull…
- Kohl agreed to the USA’s demands about joining NATO and he didn’t see this as a threat to reunification (perhaps as intended) but a challenge.
- Kohl’s bargaining chip was the failing GDR since it was crumbling whilst talks were taking place about reunification.
- Kohl argued that if the GDR was allowed to collapse it would cause chaos in Europe with a refugee crisis and instability which could lead to conflict (DRIVING THE PACE, LEADERSHIP).
- The USA (Bush) was becoming more favourable towards reunification since it was worried that WG might leave NATO if her demands weren’t met and this would reduce the USA’s influence in the region.
- They were also concerned about the collapse of the GDR on the border of the Iron Curtain (divided capitalists & communists).
- Also, the SPD leader, Lafontaine had been critical of NATO and, should Kohl’s plan of reunification fail, Lafontaine could win the election and then pull WG out of NATO anyway.
(Reasons for Reunifications Acceptance by the 4 Powers)
- Whilst T______________ and M_______________ were unhappy about a reunified G, they were also aware that a collapsing…
- Gorbachev realised that only a massive _________ could stop the ________ from collapsing and prop it up, but he was _______________ to do this given the _________ own fragile economic situation.
- (GORBACHEV’S ACCEPTANCE ESSAY) In ________________ 199___, Gorbachev informed _________ that it would be up to the ______________ people to decide about… and that the…
- This was the CRITICAL breakthrough which enabled the talks to…
- Whilst Thatcher and Mitterrand were unhappy about a reunified G, they were also aware that a collapsing GDR would cause even more problems in Europe.
- Gorbachev (ACCEPTANCE) realised that only a massive loan could stop the GDR from collapsing and prop it up, nit he was unwilling to do this given the USSR’s own fragile economic situation.
- (GORBACHEV’S ACCEPTANCE) In February 1990, Gorbachev informed Kohl that it would be up to the German people to decide about reunification and that the USSR wouldn’t get involved.
- This was the CRITICAL breakthrough which enabled the talks to take place at what became known as the ‘Two plus Four negotiations’.
(Two plus Four negotiations)
- Took place from __________ 19____ with a key focus on Germany’s joining _________ and the size of her…
- The talks began to drag on and there was a belief by the Germans that the…
- USSR’s hand was forced following the ____________ in _______ Germany (____th March) in which the _______________ for ______________ group meant that the ________ government was now…
- Under Article _____ of the _______ constitution, reunification could take place if the _______ accepted it under the…
- Took place from March 1990 with a key focus on Germany’s joining NATO and the size of her military.
- The talks began to drag on and there was a belief by the Germans that the USSR was trying to stall the process of reunification.
- USSR’s hand was forced following the elections in East Germany (18th March) in which the Alliance for Germany group, (USSR also struggling lots financially).
- Under Article 23 of the FRG’s constitution, reunification could take place if the GDR accepted it under the terms and laws of the FRG; the GDR requested unification.
(Two plus Four negotiations)
- ________________ unification took place in ________ 19______ meaning that the ________ could no longer stall the negotiations.
- Gorbachev was so concerned about the USSR’s _______________ he requested loans from the _______ and ____________ but both rejected, he then turned to…
- In _________ 199___ Gorbachev told the USA that he would…
- Gorbachev then met with __________ to discuss the withdrawal of _________ troops (___.___ million) from the _______ and the ______________ borders of the country.
- Economic unification took place in July 1990 meaning that the USSR could no longer stall negotiations.
- Gorbachev was so concerned about the USSR’s economy he requested loans form the USA and Britain but both were rejected, he then turned to West Germany for financial help.
- In May 1990 Gorbachev told the USA that he would accept a reunified Germany as a member of NATO.
- Gorbachev then met with Kohl to discuss the withdrawal of Soviet troops (1.5million) from the GDR and the eastern borders of the country.
(Two plus Four negotiations)
- West Germany agreed the _________ with the USSR and reunification was almost a reality.
- There was a disagreement between ___________ and the USSR concerning Western _____________ activities in a unified Germany, but this was overcome and on the ____th ________________ 1990, representatives of the ___ powers, the FRG and the GDR signed the ‘Treaty on the…’
- Reunification occurred at midnight between…
- West Germany agreed the loan with the USSR and reunification was almost a reality.
- There was a disagreement between Britain and the USSR concerning Western military activities in a unified Germany, but this was overcome and on the 12th September 1990, representatives of the 4 powers, the FRG and the GDR signed the ‘Treaty on the Final Settlement with Respect to Germany’.
- Reunification occurred at midnight between 2nd-3rd October 1990.
Essay Q : ‘It was Gorbachev’s acceptance of German unification that made reunification between the FRG and GDR inevitable in 1990’
- 4 Factors :
- Gorbachev’s acceptance : (Allowing the wall to fall, his acceptance, economy)
- Other reasons for reunification (migration crisis, collapse of GDR).
- Other examples of inevitability (fall of Berlin Wall, domestic political support, Currency union treaty).
- Evidence that unification wasn’t inevitable (Role of foreign powers, domestic political opposition e.g. Morrow announcing elections) and offering reform).
So poor was the USSR’s situation that by 1989, their ability to give resistance to the passage of unity was almost negligible.
