GDR policing

How did the SED use the Stasi?

To keep down opposition.

What was the Stasi?

Founded in Feb 1950, it was known as ‘the sword and shield of the party'.

It was closely modelled on the Soviet secret intelligence service.

What was the structure of the Stasi?

A military like structure with a hierarchy and punishments.

How big was the Stasi?

Started small with 1000 members of staff. By 1955 it was 13,000.

This expansion was due to the influence of Erich Mielke (stasi minister).

What was the case by the end of Mielke's time as minister in 1989?

There were 91,000 people working full time for the organisation - bigger than the Gestapo.

What members were there of the Stasi?

Informal members (IMs) which were citizens from any walk of life trusted to spy or denounce people.

Who were IM's guided by?

A Stasi officer.

By the end of the regime, there were 175,000 IMs helping to spy.

What did the Stasi work under?

Secrecy, but in reality there were no actual legal restraints - letters were opened, homes bugged etc.

What could the Stasi do?

Arrest and question people without charge.

They were an omnipresent organisation.

What was the Stasi’s main aim?

To arrest and intimidate opponents.

What did the constant spying create?

A climate of fear and mistrust, helping the SED remain in power until 1989.