Socialist Unity Party (SED)

The Socialist Unity Party (SED) was the ruling political party in East Germany from 1949 to 1990. It was a communist party that aimed to build a socialist society aligned with Soviet principles. The SED combined elements of socialism and communism, controlling government, media, and security forces to maintain its power. It played a central role in shaping East Germany’s policies, economy, and society, enforcing socialist ideals through a one-party system. The party’s collapse in 1990 coincided with the end of East Germany and the reunification of Germany.