Rise of the Berlin Wall

What happened on the 12-13 August 1961?

‘Operation Rose’ took place, which sealed off the West.

What happened following August?

A 45km long wall was erected along the border of the Soviet sector of Berlin.

Similar barricades were built along a 160km perimeter.

What did this act reinforce?

It emotionally and physically split Berlin, reinforcing political division.

How significant was this wall?

A turning point, confirming the geopolitical position of post-war Germany.

How did the Western powers react to this wall?

Taken by surprise. They protested, but the wall was built on soviet sector territory.

When was President Kennedy informed of the wall?

His agencies did not think it necessary to inform him until 14 hours later.

How did president de Gaulle react to the wall?

He did not return to Paris from his holiday home till 17 August.

How did British PM Macmillan react?

Was more concerned about the economy. He planned to reduce troops in Berlin.

What happened in October 1961?

A stand-off between US and Soviet tanks just 100m apart at Checkpoint Charlie border crossing.

No one wanted to risk an escalation over West Berlin.

How did the GDR describe the wall in propaganda?

As an ‘anti-fascist protection wall’.

Some communists felt it reinforced failings of the GDR and Soviets.

How many GDR citizens died in 1962 trying to escape?

42.

How successful was this for the SED?

Successful, as the numbers of refugees dropped sharply.

How did the FRG react to the wall?

A shock to West Germans, and a frustration to the government.

What was Adenauer’s magnet theory?

That a free, wealthy and democratic West Germany tied closely to the West would act like a magnet.

How successful was Adenauer’s magnet theory?

Very successful, and stubbornly insisted he was only prepared to accept German unification on his terms.

But what did Adenauer do after the rise of the wall?

He was thrown - he didn’t even visit West Berlin until 22 August.

What was to happen for German unification following this?

It was no longer to play a major role in international politics.