Germany in 1945 Flashcards
What was the ‘Stunde Null’?
Zero hour - the aftermath of WW2, referred to so because of the collapsed economy and starvation.
When did the Soviets take Berlin?
April-May 1945
What did the Russian ‘liberators’ do when they took Berlin?
Stalin refused access for other (USA/UK) troops until they pulled back to allocated zones. This left the Soviets to plunder the city for two months, strategically places supporters throughout the cities administration.
How many Germans were killed by the end of the war?
6.5 million
What percentage of houses were destroyed?
Over 25%
How many German prisoners of war were there left over? What issue did this bring?
1.5 million - added to migration strain on on resources.
What happened with migration after the war?
An unprecedented population shift, with 12-14 million Germans fleeing or being expelled from Eastern territories. Strain on resources.
The destruction of agricultural land led to what?
Food very scarce, only available on the black market for extortionate prices.
Which German zone had most land?
The Soviet Zone
How were Germans treated by troops?
Little distinction between ‘German’ and ‘Nazi’, many evicted from homes suddenly and treated badly.
What was the wave of terror against ethnic Germans in occupied Eastern territories?
Mass rape of women - estimated 2 million German women raped by soviet soldiers.
