Germany, 1871–1990: united, divided and reunited - 5 Reunification:…

The idea

Reunification in 1990 resulted from multiple pressures. The GDR's economy lagged behind the FRG's, with lower living standards and a weak currency, while continued migration of skilled workers undermined the GDR further. The state's authority crumbled as protests grew and the regime lost control. The process involved free elections in March 1990, the Treaty on Monetary, Economic and Social Union, and the Unification Treaty, leading to reunification on 3 October 1990. Problems included economic disparity, social integration, and the need to reassure the Four Powers. Acceptance by the Four Powers came through the Two Plus Four Treaty, which addressed security concerns and confirmed a united Germany's borders and NATO membership.

What earns the marks

• Explains the economic reasons for reunification, including the different levels of prosperity in the GDR and FRG and the impact of continued migration from the GDR.
• Analyses the political collapse of the GDR state and how this contributed to the push for reunification.
• Describes the process of reunification, including the March 1990 elections, the monetary union, and the Unification Treaty.
• Evaluates the problems of reunification, such as economic restructuring, social tensions, and the challenge of integrating two different systems.
• Explains why the Four Powers accepted reunification, including the Two Plus Four Treaty and the resolution of security concerns.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Treating the Four Powers' acceptance as automatic.

  Put it right: Explain the negotiations and concessions, such as the Two Plus Four Treaty, that addressed their concerns.

• Focusing only on economic reasons and ignoring political collapse.

  Put it right: Show how the crumbling of the GDR state and the loss of Communist authority were equally important.

• Assuming reunification was a simple merger.

  Put it right: Discuss the problems, including economic disparity, currency union effects, and social integration.

Exam tips

• Structure your answer around the three parts of the statement: reasons, process and problems, and acceptance by the Four Powers.
• Use specific evidence, such as the March 1990 elections, the monetary union of July 1990, and the Two Plus Four Treaty.
• When explaining acceptance, consider the perspectives of the Four Powers and how their security concerns were addressed.