Publisher's Synopsis
This is an examination of the history, social structure, political systems and economy of the German Democratic Republic (GDR), established in October 1949.;The work covers the period from the mid-1950s to the present day, discussing the emergence of the GDR from its position as a subservient satellite of Moscow to its present position of influence and prosperity, enjoying the highest living standards in COMECON.;The book aims to provide a survey of the history of the GDR followed by a picture of the contemporary situation, drawing upon the work both of investigative journalists and academic writers. Issues addressed include the question of a separate national identity, the autonomous peace movement, modernization of the economy, the burden of debt, and the reaction to reformist leader in the Kremlin.
