German Unification: An Era of Economic, Political, and Social Change

Book excerpt: German unification was a watershed event in post-Cold War European history. As the two halves of the great country joined, the contrast between a wealthy, democratic West and an economically and politically deprived East altered the sanctity of German stability. Three major areas illustrate the magnitude of changes. First, the disintegration of the Soviet Union and the communist government of East Germany left a legacy in the East. Second, profound struggles in the economic, political, and social dimensions continue to task the new government. Third, the German government pursues an aggressive agenda to work the major issues but can still do more to facilitate greater German unity.