Episode 21: The Rise of, Life In, and Fall of the German Democratic Republic
Feb 15, 2019
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The podcast delves into the creation of the German Democratic Republic post-WWII, comparing GDR citizens' rights to those in the West, the sheer number of Nazis in post-war Germany, and the events leading to the fall of the GDR in 1989. Topics also cover societal manipulation, women's rights in the GDR, anti-corruption efforts, and contrasting healthcare systems between the US and the GDR.
The formation of the German Democratic Republic was a response to Western militarization and rejection of unification proposals.
GDR saw economic growth despite challenges like export bans and reliance on Soviet bloc imports.
Industrial and technological advancements in the GDR showcased socialist productivity and progress.
The collapse of the GDR led to privatization, job losses, and disproportionate impact on women in the workforce.
Transition to capitalism in East Germany revealed societal differences and ongoing struggles for equity.
Deep dives
Establishment of the German Democratic Republic
In 1949, the German Democratic Republic (GDR) was formed as a response to the formation of a state in the western part of Germany. The primary goal was to have a demilitarized neutral state, but the militarization of West Germany and the rejection of proposals for unification by the Western powers led to the establishment of the GDR.
The Stalin Note and Unification Efforts
In 1952, Stalin proposed a peace treaty and the reunification of Germany with neutral status. However, the Western powers, including Great Britain, France, and the US, rejected the offer multiple times. The lack of unification led to the formation of NATO in 1954 by the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG), further solidifying the divide.
Challenges and Economic Policies in East Germany
Between 1950 and 1960, real income doubled in the GDR, despite its lack of raw resources. The GDR faced economic challenges due to ban on exports from West Germany and had to rely on imports from the Soviet bloc. The focus in the 1960s was on technological advancements and industrial collectivization to compete with the West.
Industrial and Agricultural Advancements
The GDR made advancements in chemistry, mechanical, and electrical engineering sectors in the 1960s. They also initiated industrial collectivization, following the earlier agricultural collectivization in the 1950s. Despite starting from scratch due to lack of patents from the West, the GDR showed substantial growth and productivity.
Material Conditions and Society in the GDR
By focusing on material conditions and advancements, the GDR saw significant progress despite challenges. Its society saw improvements in real income, technological development, and industrial and agricultural sectors, showcasing socialist productivity and advancements despite obstacles from the capitalist West.
Leadership and Foreign Relations
The GDR's leadership faced constant tensions and opposition from the capitalist West, especially in terms of foreign policy and unification efforts. The rejection of proposals for a unified, neutral Germany by the Western powers led to the militarization of West Germany and the eventual formation of the Warsaw Pact as a response to NATO, signifying a significant divide during the Cold War period.
The GDR's Economic Flip
The ease of travel restrictions led to a rush of people towards the border, sparked by potential economic opportunities in West Germany. The unification of currencies without a transition devalued East Germany's industry, causing a collapse. Factories were privatized, agricultural land sold to private interests, and publishing houses shut down.
Communist Values vs. Capitalist Realities
The collapse of the GDR led to a drastic shift in economic policies, privatization of key sectors, and employment changes. Women were disproportionately affected by job losses post-unification, signaling a shift away from socialist protections for women in the workplace.
The Ongoing Impact on East Berlin
East Berlin still retains some socialist values, evidenced in lower rent costs compared to most of Western Europe. The surplus of goods in capitalist societies contrasts with the stability of social societies in providing essential living conditions. Despite challenges, hope remains for future societal transformations.
Challenges in Transitioning Societies
The transition from socialist to capitalist systems resulted in a complex economic landscape in East Germany. The episode highlights the stark differences in societal structures, impact on marginalized groups, and the ongoing struggle for a fair and equitable society.
We talk about the splitting up of Germany after World War 2, the creation of both the German Democratic Republic and the Federal Republic of Germany, discuss what rights GDR citizens had, how many damn Nazis were in the West after the war, and what happened in 1989.
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Suggested Reading:
Stasi State or Socialist Paradise?: The German Democratic Republic and What Came of It, Bruni de la Motte & John Green The Triumph of Evil: The Reality of the USA's Cold War Victory, Austin Murphy From My Life, Erich Honecker Behind the Scenes in Two Worlds, Elaine & Harry Mensh
Outro music: "Es Bleibt Die Sonne," Gerd Michaelis-Chor
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