After the second World War, for three decades Berlin wall was one of the predominant symbols of the Cold War representing political and physical division of Germany into east and west part. Standing from 1961 to 1989, this wall used to mark the history and became the memorable point in people’s lives. In this article, the author explains history and consequence of the Berlin Wall.
1. Dividing a Nation
The East German ruling party’s construction of the Berlin Wall in 1961 following constant pressure by the USA and the Soviet Union on East and West Berliners, respectively, was informed by the Cold War tension. Its original function was aimed at stopping the migration of its citizens for the West Germany which, therefore, stopped the outflow of intellectuals and economic troubles in the Eastern Allied countries.
The construction was a rather tall one spanning twelve feet constructing 96 miles of it consisting of a concrete wall topped with barbed wires, watchtowers, and a ‘death strip’. This heavily fortified border of course hampered freedom and dreams of millions of east Germans, severing relations of families and friends with little or no warning.
- Stifling Life Behind the Wall
The more familiar name for this part of Germany was the German Democratic Republic and life there was not easy: the oppressing policy, persons’ rights were limited and the economy was far from satisfied. East Germans had very little freedom since Stasi secret police shadowed them at every turn. The citizens of the society were always informed by the state’s propaganda, and they did not have rights accorded to other human beings.
The physical one was the Berlin Wall separating East and West Germany and it showed that the concept of tremendous individual freedom is not suitable for the East’s population as well as ideas cannot flow from one side to another. There was no tolerance shown to protesters and anyone who tried to scale the wall was dealt with an iron fist, in most cases receiving a serious beating, or in some cases dying on the spot.
- A Catalyst for Change
In its function to separate East and West Germany, it strangely became the unifying symbol for a people yearning for an independent and liberated Germany. It was one symbol of what East Germans had to go through constantly, and it fanned the flame of change in the society.
The wall was condemned over the years and by the late 1980s, the movements of freedom and reunion and protests began peacefully. With the collapse of communism in the Soviet Union and other Eastern block countries, the dramatic tearing of the Berlin Wall in November 1989 signaled a new era in history for Germans of all stripes as one nation is reunified.
- The Lessons Learned
The break of the barrier represented by the Berlin Wall reminds everyone of triumph of human spirit and the need for freedom. What is more, it helps us learn different lessons that are seen as the outputs of separation, as well as the role of communication, and the strength of united people.
These facts in general teach people the importance of unity as well as tolerance and necessity of communication and open discussion of the concepts which divide people. Different fields can be considered as the anthropological perspective to understand the past and focuses efforts toward creating a better future.
Conclusion
The Berlin Wall stood as a stark reminder of the ideological divisions during the Cold War era. Its construction and eventual fall provide valuable lessons and insights into the power of unity, the desire for freedom, and the unwavering human spirit. By understanding the history and impact of the Berlin Wall, we gain a deeper appreciation for the values and principles that shape our world today.
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