75 years of GDR: Do you remember the eventful history? Take part!

75 years of GDR: Do you remember the eventful history? Take part!

The GDR is a fascinating chapter in German history, which was launched 75 years ago, on October 7, 1949. This significant day marked the beginning of a state that existed until the fall of the Berlin Wall on November 9, 1989. The foundation of the GDR was a product of political tensions after the Second World War when the Soviet Union expanded its influence in the Soviet occupation zone. The first president of the GDR became Wilhelm Pieck, and the socialist unit party in Germany (SED) played a central role in the political landscape.

Memories of key events

A key moment in GDR history was October 13, 1948 when the miner Adolf Hennecke became a symbol of the socialist activist movement. He exceeded the work standards and received prices and awards. This type of propaganda led to an upswing in socialist thoughts in society. But not all times were peaceful: on June 17, 1953, a popular uprising broke out, which began to respond to the increasing working standards and bad living conditions. The riots were brutally depressed and over 50 people lost their lives.

With the construction of the wall on August 13, 1961, the border between East and West Germany was finally secured. The GDR wanted to stop the massive escape of its citizens into the West. Until the fall of the wall, numerous people died when attempting to escape on the border. But despite these draconian measures, a special culture in the GDR bloomed, which was characterized by music, film and literature. The 1st FC Magdeburg celebrated the European Cup in 1974, and the Puhdys became a legend of GDR rock music. These successes were a small ray of hope in a regime that is otherwise characterized by restrictive measures.

The last act of GDR history took place on October 3, 1990 when the GDR officially joined the Federal Republic of Germany. This day stands not only for the end of a state, but also for the beginning of a new era in German history. People remember the highs and lows of a time that has shaped many and whose aftermath can still be felt.