German Democratic Republic (East Germany)

The German Democratic Republic (GDR), or East Germany, existed from 1949 to 1990 as a socialist state under Soviet influence. It was established in the eastern part of Germany after World War II, with a government controlled by the German Socialist Unity Party. East Germany was characterized by centralized planning, state ownership of industry, limited political freedoms, and restrictions on dissent. It was separated from West Germany by the Berlin Wall, symbolizing Cold War divisions. The GDR aimed to build a socialist society, but faced economic challenges and political repression, ultimately leading to its reunification with West Germany in 1990.