What Was It Like To Live In East Germany Flashcards
What was the greatest success of the GDR?
Expansion of pre-school education
This included banning religious, private, and selective schools.
What organization indoctrinated children in Communist ways in East Germany?
‘Free German Youth’
This organization played a significant role in shaping youth ideology.
What was banned regarding education in East Germany?
Religious education
This was part of the East German government’s efforts to promote atheism.
What was the Jugendweihe?
An atheist initiation ceremony for all 14-year-olds
It involved a pledge to East Germany and communism.
What type of healthcare system was present in East Germany?
Free healthcare for all
This included services in every hospital.
What was the employment situation in East Germany?
Everyone had a job, no unemployment benefit
This policy aimed to eliminate unemployment.
What was a key feature regarding pensions in East Germany?
Generous pensions for over-60’s
This was part of the welfare system.
What was the attitude towards women in East Germany?
Equality for women was promoted
Despite this, women generally earned lower wages than men.
What was the mood in East Germany compared to West Germany?
No ‘feel good factor’ due to shortages
Rationing remained, contrasting with the prosperity of West Germany.
What methods did dissenters use to protest in East Germany?
Listening to Western Radio, watching Western TV, copying American Lifestyle
These actions were forms of subtle resistance.
What was the role of the Stasi regarding dissent?
Suppressed anyone who criticized the state
The Stasi was known for its extensive surveillance and repression.
Fill in the blank: Many religious leaders were ______ in East Germany.
arrested
This was part of the crackdown on religious activities.
How many new houses were built each year in East Germany?
100,000 new houses
This was part of the government’s housing policy.
