Why Was The Berlin Wall Built And Why Was It Important Flashcards
What were the main characteristics of West Berlin by 1961?
Plenty of money and consumer goods, high standard of living, democracy, freedom of speech, and more human rights
American trends were also prevalent in West Berlin.
What defined life in East Berlin by 1961?
Dominated by the SED, controlled media, no freedom of speech, poor quality of goods, and constant surveillance by the Stasi
Only one political party existed in East Berlin.
What was the Brain Drain in East Berlin?
The emigration of educated individuals to West Berlin for better wages, with 1,000 people fleeing per day by 1960
This significantly harmed East Germany’s economy.
When was the Berlin Wall constructed?
In August 1961
It started as a barbed wire fence and later became a high wall.
What impact did the Berlin Wall have on families?
Families were cut in half and could never see each other again
This created long-lasting emotional and social divides.
What was the consequence of trying to climb the Berlin Wall?
Hundreds of people died and were shot by border guards
This highlighted the dangers of attempting to escape East Berlin.
What symbol did the Berlin Wall represent?
The division between Communist East and Capitalist West
It became an iconic representation of the Cold War.
How did Capitalists and Communists interpret the Berlin Wall differently?
- Capitalists: ‘prison wall’ trapping East citizens
- Communists: ‘protection wall’ against Western culture
This reflects the ideological divide of the era.
What was the embarrassment for Communists regarding the Berlin Wall?
They had to physically prevent people from leaving East Berlin
This indicated dissatisfaction with the communist regime.
What was the reassurance provided by the Berlin Wall?
Both sides were happy as it clearly marked the border and showed neither side was trying to conquer the other
This helped maintain a tense but stable status quo.
