Germany after 1945 - Economic dislocation

What happened to industrial capacity during the war?

It obviously declined dramatically, but extent of its destruction was exaggerated at the time.

What had broken down during the end of the war?

Infrastructure of bridges and railways and utilities, like gas and water.

What happened due to the states massive debts?

They again faced rising inflation, which led to major use of the black market for supply of food and other goods.

What did many Germans see this state as?

Stunde Nulle, zero hour.

However, what major continuities were there?

• efficient civil service.

• long-standing local government authorities.

• well-established banking system (despite currency problems)

However, why was there no complete social breakdown following the war?

• Allies restored law and order quite quickly.

• Entrepreneurial middle class still aspired.

• Christianity survived Nazism and churches free to practice faiths.

What was the key question for Germany coming out of the war?

Whether it had emerged from 1945 as ‘new’ or largely rooted in its past.