German Democratic Republic

The German Democratic Republic (GDR), or East Germany, was a socialist state that existed from 1949 to 1990 in eastern Germany. It was established after World War II, when Germany was divided between Western Allies and the Soviet Union. The GDR was governed by the Socialist Unity Party, promoting socialist ideals and state control over many aspects of life. It was part of the Eastern Bloc under Soviet influence, with a planned economy and limited political freedoms. In 1990, it reunified with West Germany, ending its existence and forming the modern, unified Germany.