DDR (East Germany)

DDR, or Deutsche Demokratische Republik (East Germany), was a socialist state that existed from 1949 to 1990, occupying the eastern part of Germany. It was established after World War II, under Soviet influence, and was characterized by a centrally planned economy, a one-party government led by the Socialist Unity Party, and limited personal freedoms. The DDR aimed to promote socialism and prevent capitalist influences from the West. Its most famous symbol was the Berlin Wall, built to prevent escapes to West Germany. The country reunified with West Germany in 1990, ending the DDR's existence.