The divided Germany showcased stark contrasts between East and West during the Cold War era, with the Geschichte der DDR marking a period of intense surveillance and restricted freedoms in the East, while the West experienced greater prosperity and social progress.
• The division created two distinct German states: the democratic West Germany (BRD) and communist East Germany (DDR)
• Überwachung in der DDR was extensive, with the Stasi conducting widespread surveillance of citizens
• West Germany aligned with Western powers and embraced capitalism, while East Germany followed Soviet communist principles
• Berlin served as a microcosm of the division, split between East and West despite being located within DDR territory
• Social and economic differences between the regions were significant, with the West enjoying greater prosperity and personal freedoms