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FRG Flashcards

1
Q

Describe the Basic Law of West Germany.

A

The Basic Law served as the constitution of West Germany, intended to be temporary until German reunification, and committed to working towards unity. It emphasized human and civil rights as inalienable.

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2
Q

Explain the citizenship provisions in the Basic Law.

A

The Basic Law allowed all Germans living in former German lands to obtain citizenship and permitted those who left the DDR to settle and work in West Germany.

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3
Q

How does the Basic Law ensure freedom of expression?

A

The Basic Law guarantees freedoms of expression, assembly, association, and movement, with a strong emphasis on human and civil rights.

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4
Q

Define the structure of democracy in West Germany as per the Basic Law.

A

West Germany operated as a representative democracy, where popular participation was largely limited to voting every few years, with power concentrated in the hands of an elite.

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5
Q

Describe the role of the President in West Germany’s political system.

A

The President in West Germany was not directly elected but chosen by a representative convention, with limited powers that were largely formal and symbolic; prevented anti-democratic leader; only one re-election possible.

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6
Q

Explain the Chancellor’s appointment process in West Germany.

A

The Chancellor was appointed by the President but required parliamentary approval; if the proposed Chancellor lacked support, new elections had to be called; could not be dismissed unless new chancellor voted it.

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7
Q

What is the function of the Bundestag in West Germany?

A

The Bundestag, as the lower chamber, was responsible for approving the Chancellor, participating in the election of the head of state, and federal court judges, and could take control of the government through a constructive vote of no confidence.

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8
Q

How does the electoral system in West Germany work?

A

West Germany used a mixed electoral system of proportional representation (PR) and first-past-the-post (FPTP), with a 5% hurdle to prevent the emergence of small extremist parties.

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9
Q

Define the political party restrictions under the Basic Law.

A

Political parties in West Germany had to uphold democracy, leading to the banning of extremist parties not committed to parliamentary democracy, including far-right and far-left groups.

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10
Q

What was the significance of the 5% hurdle in West Germany’s elections?

A

The 5% hurdle was implemented to prevent small extremist parties from gaining representation in the federal government, thereby upholding political pluralism.

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11
Q

Describe the Christian Democrats (CDU/CSU) in West Germany.

A

The Christian Democrats were conservative Christians, previously part of the Catholic Centre Party and Protestant parties, supporting capitalism and a welfare state, and following the Ahlen Programme; some former Nazis.

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12
Q

Explain the evolution of the SPD in West Germany.

A

The SPD, originally rooted in traditional socialist values and Marxism, abandoned Marxism at the Bad Godesberg Conference in 1956 to appeal more broadly to workers.

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13
Q

What was the political landscape regarding the Communist Party in West Germany?

A

The Communist Party (KPD) was banned in 1956 after a long legal battle, reflecting the political restrictions against extremist parties.

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14
Q

How did the CDU dominate West German politics in the early years?

A

The CDU achieved significant electoral success, winning 31% of the vote in 1949, 45.2% in 1953, 50.2% in 1957, and 45.3% in 1961.

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15
Q

What were Adenauer’s aims regarding Western integration?

A

Adenauer aimed for Western integration, driven by a mistrust and fear of the Soviets; wanted to revise restrictions of Occupation Statute as quickly as possible.

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16
Q

Describe the role of the Constitutional Court in West Germany.

A

The Constitutional Court was established to review judicial cases and determine whether they were unconstitutional, playing a key role in upholding democratic rights.

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17
Q

What was the purpose of the new agency created under the Basic Law?

A

The new agency was tasked with investigating and preventing any anti-democratic activities from both the left and right.

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18
Q

Describe the main goal of West Germany in relation to Western powers during the post-war period.

A

West Germany sought protection from the West and aimed to gain the trust of Western powers to quickly revise the restrictions of the Occupation Statute.

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19
Q

Explain the significance of the ‘German question’ in the context of reunification.

A

The ‘German question’ referred to the issue of reunification of the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG) and the German Democratic Republic (GDR); Adenauer believed Western capitalist-oriented state had to be maintained.

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20
Q

How did West Germany assure its public regarding communism during the reunification process?

A

West Germany assured the public that it would not make concessions to communism.

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21
Q

What was the magnate theory and its outcome before the Berlin Wall was erected?

A

The magnate theory was the idea that FRG could secure state by attracting East Germans to join FRG through own volition; successful as it led to nearly 3 million refugees leaving East Germany before the Berlin Wall was built in 1961.

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22
Q

Define the social market economy as implemented in West Germany.

A

The social market economy aimed to create a free market regulated by the state, balancing economic freedom with social equity; Ehard and Adenauer.

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23
Q

Identify the economic challenges faced by West Germany immediately after World War II.

A

West Germany faced economic challenges such as a recession in 1949-50, rising unemployment to 2 million, and increasing prices.

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24
Q

What social issues did West Germany need to address post-war?

A

West Germany had an urgent need to build millions of homes to accommodate the population displaced by bombing and the influx of refugees and expellees from Eastern Europe.

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25
Discuss the political limitations of West Germany under the Occupation Statute.
West Germany was still under the control of the Occupation Statute and lacked sovereignty, requiring approval from the Allies for many aspects of governance, including trade and internal security.
26
What advantages did West Germany have compared to East Germany after the war?
West Germany did not suffer as much damage, had access to raw materials, received Marshall Aid, and was forgiven by Western countries.
27
How did Bizonia policies contribute to West Germany's economic recovery before 1949?
Bizonia policies encouraged work, so that index for industrial production raised from 51% in June 1948 to 78% in Dec; removed price controls, stimulating business through free competition; reduced marginal tax rates, so those on higher incomes spent more on goods/services.
28
What were the effects of economic policies in West Germany after 1949?
After 1949, industrial production rose significantly, wages increased by 400% from 1949 to 1963, and unemployment fell from 8.1% in 1950 to 0.5% in 1965.
29
Explain the impact of the Korean War on West Germany's economy.
The Korean War increased demand for goods that the Ruhr region could supply, effectively doubling West Germany's exports.
30
Who was Ludwig Erhard and what was his contribution to West Germany's economy?
Ludwig Erhard developed the social market economy, combining economic freedom with social equity to foster prosperity in West Germany.
31
How did the West German government control inflation during the economic recovery?
The government controlled inflation through regulation of interest rates and the supply of money, while minimizing reparations and defense costs.
32
What was the role of the German Federation of Trade Unions established in 1949?
The German Federation of Trade Unions coordinated the activities of 16 unions in individual companies to promote cooperation rather than conflict.
33
Describe the Co-determination Law of 1951.
The Co-determination Law of 1951 allowed workers to have their own representatives on managerial boards, recognizing the importance of industrial peace and appeasing trade unions.
34
Explain the significance of the Works’ Constitution Law of 1952.
The Works’ Constitution Law of 1952 established workers' councils for all companies with more than 500 employees, enhancing worker representation and participation in company decisions.
35
How did the Law of 1957 impact sick pay in West Germany?
The Law of 1957 increased sick pay, contributing to the welfare state and improving the financial security of workers.
36
Define the reforms made to the pension insurance system in 1957.
The reforms raised a person's pension to 60% of their final-year earnings, enhancing the financial support for retirees.
37
What measures supported families in West Germany during the 1950s?
Families were supported by tax-based child allowances and the introduction of child benefits in 1954.
38
How did the welfare budget in 1960 reflect the economic priorities of West Germany?
In 1960, the welfare budget accounted for 20.7% of GNP, indicating a significant investment in social welfare and support systems.
39
Describe the aims of the social market economy in West Germany.
The aims included rising consumption and economic growth, alongside political and social freedom with social justice and security.
40
What was the annual growth rate of the FRG between 1951 and 1965?
The annual growth rate of the FRG during this period was 8%.
41
How much did the GNP of the FRG increase between 1950 and 1955?
The GNP of the FRG increased by 100% between 1950 and 1955.
42
What was the employment growth rate in West Germany by 1955?
Employment rose by 4.2% by 1955.
43
Explain the impact of the Marshall Plan on West Germany's economy.
The Marshall Plan provided aid that stimulated the economy, laying a strong foundation for political stability and supporting Adenauer's regime; was only 5% of FRG's GDP.
44
What living conditions were common in West Germany up to 1955?
Up to 1955, only half of the population lived in one-bedroom flats, and only 11% of households owned a fridge.
45
How did living standards change in the second half of the 1950s?
Living standards rose, with the working week reduced to 45 hours and the introduction of a five-day working week.
46
By 1962, what percentage of households owned a fridge and a car?
By 1962, 63% of households owned a fridge and 38% owned a car.
47
What characterized Adenauer's political stability during his tenure?
Adenauer's longevity in office, winning four elections, indicated his popularity and the population's desire for stability.
48
Define the era of chancellor democracy in West Germany.
The era of chancellor democracy (1949-63) was marked by Adenauer's prominent role in policy-making and governance.
49
How did the political landscape in West Germany limit opposition?
Extremist parties were banned, and Adenauer absorbed right-wing parties into the CDU, preventing a divided Bundestag.
50
What was West Germany's economic integration with Europe post-1949?
West Germany joined the Organisation for European Economic Co-operation (OEEC) in October 1949 and received Marshall Aid, fostering economic cooperation.
51
Explain the significance of the ECSC for West Germany.
Joining the ECSC in April 1951 placed Franco-German production under common authority, promoting economic unity and removing foreign control over FRG industry.
52
What was established by the Treaty of Rome in 1957?
The Treaty of Rome established the EEC and West Germany joined EURATOM, signifying increased trust and economic integration in Europe.
53
Describe the political commitments made by West Germany in the Council of Europe in 1948.
The Council of Europe in 1948 represented West Germany's commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
54
What was Adenauer's stance regarding West Germany's alignment during the Cold War?
Adenauer stated that West Germany belonged to the West, not to Soviet Russia, affirming its alignment with Western powers.
55
How did Adenauer respond to the division of Germany?
Adenauer accepted the division of Germany, focusing on strengthening West Germany's position in the West.
56
Describe the main condition for the rapprochement between France and West Germany in the 1950s.
West Germany had to accept the division of Germany and not seek reunification.
57
Explain the significance of the Élysée Treaty in 1963.
The Élysée Treaty sealed cooperation between France and West Germany, marking a commitment to a harmonious relationship.
58
How did NATO's establishment in 1949 impact West Germany's military status?
NATO's establishment allowed West Germany to join in 1955, agreeing not to seek reunification by force and contributing to collective defense.
59
What was the Hallstein Doctrine and its implications for West Germany's foreign relations?
The Hallstein Doctrine stated that West Germany would not recognize East Germany as a separate state, affecting its diplomatic relations.
60
Do you know the economic impact of the 1952 Equalisation of Burdens Act in West Germany?
It introduced a tax on property and funds not affected by WWII, redistributing wealth and gaining support from those who lost possessions.
61
Explain the social changes in East Germany following the introduction of collectivisation in 1961.
Collectivisation led to increased emigration from East Germany to the West as individual farms were merged into larger collective farms.
62
Define the term 'affluence' in the context of West Germany's economic policies from 1949 to 1963.
Affluence refers to the rise of a wealthy society due to economic policies that increased wages, improved housing, and made consumer goods more accessible.
63
How did Adenauer's policies address the aftermath of WWII in West Germany?
Adenauer's policies focused on rebuilding the economy, providing social welfare, and redistributing wealth to support those affected by the war.
64
What were the concerns of Stalin regarding a united Germany in 1952?
Stalin was concerned that a democratic and united Germany could join Western powers, threatening Soviet security.
65
Describe the economic conditions in West Germany between 1949 and 1963.
Wages increased by 400%, consumer goods became readily available, and significant housing improvements were made, contributing to a prosperous society.
66
How did Adenauer respond to Soviet advances during his tenure?
Adenauer ignored Soviet advances, including the 1953 uprising, and only negotiated the return of former POWs in 1955.
67
What was the impact of the influx of refugees from East Germany on West Germany's labor market?
The influx of 12-13 million refugees provided cheap labor, which helped to rebuild the economy and support post-war recovery.
68
Explain the role of NATO in West Germany's rearmament during the Cold War.
NATO facilitated West Germany's rearmament by placing NATO forces on German soil, recognizing its strategic position between the Soviet Bloc and Western Europe.
69
What was the outcome of Khrushchev's ultimatum to the West in 1958 regarding West Berlin?
The Western powers refused to comply with Khrushchev's demand to leave West Berlin, leading to heightened tensions.
70
How did the economic policies of West Germany affect the distribution of wealth?
The economic policies led to an unequal distribution of wealth, despite overall affluence and increased consumer access.
71
Describe the stereotype of Spiessbürger in the context of the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG).
Spiessbürger represented the prosperity of the FRG, benefiting from the economic boom and rise of consumerism, which led to increased living standards and a decline in radical communism.
72
Explain the reintegration of former Nazis in the FRG after World War II.
By the late 1940s, de-Nazification had become ineffective, with many former Nazis exonerated and compensated. Former Nazi civil servants regained their jobs, and some, like Adenauer's personal advisor, continued to hold significant positions.
73
How did the focus on war criminals change in the 1960s in Germany?
The 1960s saw a renewed focus on war criminals, highlighted by the trial and execution of Adolf Eichmann, the organizer of the Holocaust, in 1961.
74
Do younger generations in the FRG challenge existing ideas?
Yes, younger generations began to challenge existing ideas, heavily influenced by Western culture and music, leading to the emergence of subversive counterculture in the 1960s.
75
Explain the impact of the Allies on the German educational system post-World War II.
The Allies aimed to reshape the German educational system to eliminate Nazi influence, but responsibility was passed to the Länder in 1949, resulting in minimal changes to the traditional school system.
76
Define the significance of Article 3 of the Basic Law in relation to women's rights in the FRG.
Article 3 of the Basic Law advanced women's status by granting them equal rights, marking a significant step towards gender equality in post-war Germany.
77
How did the Law of Equality of the Sexes of 1957 affect women's rights in the FRG?
The Law of Equality of the Sexes of 1957 allowed wives to work without their husband's permission and enabled them to retain control of property after marriage.
78
Discuss the wage disparity between men and women in the FRG during the post-war period.
Despite advancements in women's rights, working women earned, on average, only 40% of what men earned, highlighting significant wage disparity.
79
What challenges did the FRG face in the education sector after World War II?
The FRG faced challenges such as a lack of school buildings, a shortage of appropriate teaching materials, and the prevalence of Nazi-published schoolbooks.
80
Describe the political climate in the FRG regarding opposition in the aftermath of World War II.
In the aftermath of World War II, there was no formal political opposition, but the media became politicized, leading to student movements and left-wing parties challenging the state in the 1960s.
81
Explain the consequences of the decision not to run for president in 1959 for the FRG's leadership.
The decision not to run for president in 1959 damaged the image and reputation of the leadership, reflecting a decline in political standing.
82
How did the FRG government respond to the Berlin Wall crisis in the early 1960s?
The government faced criticism for its failure to intervene over the Berlin Wall and was accused of neglecting Eastern Germany, particularly after delaying a visit to Berlin.
83
What was the Der Spiegel incident in 1962, and what were its implications?
In 1962, Der Spiegel criticized the readiness of German defense forces, leading to a government attempt to silence the magazine through raids and arrests, resulting in public outcry and the resignation of the defense minister.
84
Proportion of women in higher education in 1950.
Only 30% of women were in higher education in 1950.
85
What was the impact of Law 131 on former Nazi civil servants?
40-80% of civil servants became ex-Nazis; they regained jobs lost and continued working in the judiciary and universities.
86
What were the housing improvements in West Germany by 1957?
430,000 homes were built by 1952; 4 million by 1957.
87
What was the Socialist Reich Party (SRP) and when was it banned?
The Socialist Reich Party (SRP) was a pro-Nazi party that was banned in 1951.

History - Germany (5 decks)

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