What Happened in Germany After World War II? And How Did It Rise Again?
During the Nazi Era:
Hitler instilled a new spirit of pride and dignity in the German people after years of defeat and humiliation following their loss in World War I. This spirit grew to the point where the average German believed they were a superior race destined to rule the world, based on Hitler’s propaganda.
Technological Superiority:
Nearly all Germans supported Hitler during World War II. Germany excelled in many fields such as science, technology, civilization, and military industry. Germany became a symbol of progress and development in the eyes of the world. However, Hitler's ambition exceeded logic as he aimed to dominate the world with the German people, leading to a coalition of major powers against him. Germany ultimately suffered a bitter defeat, ending in its collapse.
After the War:
Germany was divided among the Allied powers, with the Soviet Union controlling the eastern part (East Germany), while West Germany was under the control of Western powers, supported by the U.S. Germany faced the bitterness of defeat and the burden of accumulated debts imposed by the Allies. The country lost about 6.9 million people, both military and civilian, and women made up 75% of the population. German women at that time were called "Trümmerfrauen" or "rubble women," as they played a significant role in rebuilding Germany after the war.
The Role of Women in Germany’s Revival:
After the war, German women were a driving force in rebuilding the country. They wrote encouraging slogans on walls and rubble, such as "The impossible is not German" and "Plant hope before wheat." Despite the famine and economic collapse, women overcame these difficulties through the concept of "savings banks," where they lent their gold and jewelry to German banks.
Economic and Political Revival:
Under the leadership of Chancellor Konrad Adenauer and Economics Minister Ludwig Erhard, the concept of "social economy and financial awareness" was established, encouraging people to rebuild the nation. They promoted the idea of a free market and strengthened capitalist policies, leading to the growth of German industries, particularly the automotive industry.
The government encouraged the creation of small and medium-sized enterprises, which saw great success and helped reduce gaps between cities and rural areas. Germany also benefited from the U.S. "Marshall Plan," receiving grants and loans that allowed it to restructure the education system, introduce concepts like kindergartens, and focus on technical and industrial education.
Technological and Industrial Advancement:
Germany equipped itself with thousands of researchers and innovative companies, registering thousands of patents annually. It revived industries like chemicals, mechanical engineering, and electronics, and began exporting its products on a large and unprecedented scale.
Healthcare System and Scientific Progress:
Germany became a leader in the European healthcare system, developing a health insurance system that dates back to 1883. Today, Germans have an advanced healthcare system that provides them with efficient access to doctors and hospitals.
Moving Toward the Future:
Over time, East and West Germany were reunited, and the country became part of major international alliances like the European Union and NATO. Today, the German people are among the most advanced in the world, with the German economy relying heavily on the service sector, which employs around 29 million Germans.
Germany Today:
Germany is now the largest economy in the European Union, with a GDP of $3.3 trillion. Despite its population density, Germany remains a major economic and military power, enjoying strong influence in international politics.