Federal Republic of Germany Flashcards
Explain the Political Challenge and Dissent in the FRG
FRG had to rebuild the government and work in coalitions in order to rebuild their identity as well as repress extremism. They had to remove the ideology of the Nazi’s that was so well implemented in the youths.
What was education like in FRG?
It was based of an American styled school system, teachers were vetted to remove any Nazi influence as well as how to spot anyone who was extremist. The allies wanted to educate the youth not on the past of Germany but more on the future through technology and industry pushing FRG forward. Were taught of the capitalist laws and how that differed with the communists
How were Ethnic Minorities treated in FRG?
In 1947 there were 10 million refugees. There was full employment of domestic workers and FRG wanted foreign workers to expand and improve German economy. They were given equal wages as Germans, but not the same rights. They were treated well and viewed as equal to the citizens, they were a major role in producing the economic boom. however soon faced hostility after the recession causing numbers to drop to 2 million.
What was the role of Adenauer in maintaining political stability?
Adenauer was elected as first chancellor and his main aims was to help West Germany transition into a democratic state. He helped West Germany became an independent nation also put West Germany into NATO and the European economic community. Kept close ties with the USA and France
What was the role of Brandt in maintaining political stability?
Brandt came to power in 1967 and worked towards establishing friendly relations with East Germany, not treating it as a soviet zone. He decriminalized homosexuality and put the voting age to 18.
What was the role of Schmidt in maintaining political stability?
Schmidt maintained favorable international relations with the USA.
Steered Germany through the oil crisis
Hard line policy which refused to negotiate or compromise with terrorists
Terrorist attacks increased Palestinians seized aircraft but he sent ground forces in and killed ¾ of them holding passengers hostages
What was the role of Kohl in maintaining political stability?
Kohl built relations with Europe. He reconciled with France and this increased relations with them as well as Europe. Oversaw Maastricht treaty that led to the introduction of the Euro
What led to the Economic Miracle?
German economy improved rapidly due to
Korean war - Industrial goods, consumer goods and chemicals became popular in demand
New investment - high quality goods due to new equipment therefore exports grow
Workers - guest workers helped create an efficient workforce. Workers were highly skilled and payed equal pay.
Social Market Economy - Director of German economic council Ludwig Erhard gave Germany a free economy while government maintaining the ability to control decisions. New theory and new currency with the aid of the marshall plan gave Germany the growth
How did the oil crises affect FRG?
The Arab oil crisis struck Germany and caused oil prices to treble. This meant that their were restrictions on the people. They let oil prices rise so it made fuel expensive therefore encouraged setbacks. 2nd crisis sent the economy into a recession and unemployment began to rise. The government spent more and more on public spending and it was out of control. The economic stabilization law was passed so government could interfere.
How did the FRG integrate into Europe?
Adenauer wanted to restore relations creating a united western Europe. Petersburg agreement granted Germany right to establish diplomatic relations. From this France and Germany formed the European coal and steel community which would agree upon common prices. Treaty of Rome created European Economic community. World powers now trust West Germany. Invited to join NATO and west European union EU.
How did living standards change in FRG?
1945 - Families torn apart, people starving and many homeless. ⅕ housing bombed and ⅓ standing was damaged. Ministry of housing set up and rents were frozen. Economy strengthened therefore standard rose. German federation of trade unions for workers rights they achieved higher pay rates and less hours. There was an increased spending on welfare and benefits and financial assistance for those who couldn’t afford homes.
