How far do you agree that Ludwig Erhard made a more significant contribution to the success of the FRG than other politicians in the years 1949-89?

Introduction

• Success of FRG should be measured not just by economy

• Criteria = economy, political stability, international affairs etc

• Ludwig Erhard v important

• Adenauer arguably more so

Paragraph 1

• Erhard made a significant contribution through economic recovery

• 1948 - Currency reform, Reichsmark to Deutsche Mark + removed price controls

• 1950s - FRG GDP grew 8% per year 1950-60

• Unemployment fell to 2% in 1960

Paragraph 2

• Erhard’s contribution limited by performance as Chancellor

• Only 3 years as Chancellor (1963-1966)

• 1965 - election, 48%, not enough for a majority

• Economic growth fell to 2.8% GDP in 1966

Paragraph 3

• Adenauer made greater contribution (laid foundation)

• Spent 14 years as Chancellor (1949-1963)

• 1955 - Became 15th member of NATO

• One of 6 founding member of the EEC in 1957

Paragraph 4

• Brandt and Schmidt made major contributions

• Brandt = Chancellor 1969-74, Brandt pursued Ostpolitik, improving relations with the East

• Brandt = Voting age down to 18

• Schmidt = Chancellor for 8 years (1974-82