The System of Government in the Federal Republic of Germany

Question 1

What was the name of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Germany?

Answer 1

The Basic Law.

Question 2

When was the Basic Law (FRG constitution) announced?

Answer 2

May 23, 1949

Question 3

What did Article 21 of the Basic Law state?

Answer 3

Political parties must not undermine the Federal Republic of Germany or it’s democratic principles.

Question 4

Identify three features of the Basic Law which aimed to overcome the problems of the Weimar Constitution and prevent the rise of extremist groups in Germany.

Answer 4

• Un-democratic or anti-FRG parties were abolished.
• The President is now elected by the Bundestag (German parliament) rather than the people.
• Parties need at least 5% of the votes to receive any seats.