
It’s Still East … and West Germany
If East Germans had not felt—and rightly so—that for too many years, all decisions were made by West Germans, less estrangement would likely have resulted.

If East Germans had not felt—and rightly so—that for too many years, all decisions were made by West Germans, less estrangement would likely have resulted.

Though Germany’s divisions appeared larger than ever on a day designed to commemorate unity, these divisions are not geographical but political, cultural, and social.

During the celebration of 35 years since reunification, the chancellor warned Germans they’d have to make “more effort” for the country to stand up to external and internal threats.

“I am now 70 years old, 35 years in the East, 35 years in politics, apparently two lives … and the second half cannot be understood without the first.”