Social change - Youth

When did schools reopen?

October 1945 with the purpose of removing racism and militarism.

What was the result of schools reopening?

Nearly all teachers were dismissed because of their Nazi past or membership of the National Socialist Teachers’ League.

What became available for young people?

New teacher training schemes.

What happened to the existing school system?

It was abolished as it upheld old bourgeois views.

What was the new school system like?

• Emphasis on technical skills.

• Development of close links with factories or sport.

• Provision of practical work experience.

What was introduced in 1946?

‘Law for the Democratisation of German Schools’

What was the Law for the Democratisation of German schools’?

• Abolition of private and religious schools.

• Expansion of pre-schools.

• A centralised curriculum.

• New textbooks introduced.

What was introduced after 1956?

‘Polytechnic education’.

What was ‘polytechnic education’?

• Polytechnic upper schools established from aged 6 to 16, with opportunity for 2 more years.

• Compulsory practical work one day a week.

• Sport and paramilitary training improved fitness.

What happened to standards in mathematics and science?

They did eventually rise.

By 1970, there were so many graduates there weren’t enough jobs to match.

But, what were schools able to do?

Block the advancement and further training opportunities of those they considered less committed to the political system.

How much was spent on education?

More than in West Germany, and did have its benefits as education standards did rise.

What organisation was set up for 14-25 year olds?

The Free German Youth Organisation.

What was Ernst Thalmann Young Pioneers?

They looked over those from 6 to 10.

Ernst Thalmann Pioneers 10 to 14.

What did youth organisations have?

Activities, outings and camping trips.

How successful was winning over the youth?

Not all won over to state views.

Some support for Western culture. By 1960s many copied it; wearing jeans, listening to new music.

What did many young people do?

Many conformed at school but led a more independent and even rebellious home life away from state expectations and ideology.