Politics under Adenauer Flashcards
When was FRG established?
May 1949
What was Article 21 of Basic Law?
Political parties seen to be undermining the democratic nature of the FRG could be disbanded
How were problems with Weimar Constitution overcome?
i) Article 21
ii) Parties needed at least 5% of votes to get standing in Bundestag
What was the Hallstein Doctrine (1955)?
- Hardened the FRG’s attitude towards the GDR
- Instead focused on closer ties/economic integration with Europe
What was Article 131 of Basic Law and how did it add to Adenauer’s policy towards ex-Nazis?
- Allowed ex-nazis to work in government and the civil service
- Followed in his ‘Year Zero’ approach which created continuity/efficiency within the Civil service.
How was Adenauers regime described by critics?
“Chancellor Democracy”
How many ex-nazis worked in the foreign ministry in 1952?
4
In 1961, what did Adenauer try to set up which was viewed as unconstitutional?
A government-controlled TV station
What was Adenauer’s outlook towards Europe?
He tried to seek closer ties, economically and politically
How did Adenauer try to become closer with Europe?
i) Joined IMF
ii) Joined NATO
iii) Founding member of EEC (economic)(trade doubled)
What evidence is there for wider support for democracy?
-Voter turnouts exceeded 84%
How did the FRG’s constitution maintain political stability?
- Democratic nature of government
- Voting system wherein atleast 5% needed
- Article 21 (undermining democracy)
- Limitations of power on President and Chancellor
What effect did changes to voting have on FRG’s political stability?
-Less political parties represented making politics less polarised and allowing Adenauer to achieve a majority government in 1957.
How did the FRG control and undermine opposition?
- 1950 employment ban
- Article 21
- BfV and BND
What was the 1950 employment ban?
-Restricted who could work in government (particularly communists)
