Dividing Berlin’s East and West during the Cold War is one of the most interesting parts in the history of Berlin. It was the Berlin Wall, which divided the two sides, symbolising that clash of democracy and communism. However, which was better, in terms of living conditions, economy and opportunities? Let’s take a closer look.
1. Living Conditions
Conditions in East and West Berlin were very different. In all, the standard of living in West Berlin was higher than in East Berlin. The area west of the city was served by Western countries and had enjoyed economic prosperity, while socialist policies had prevented East Berlin from catching up.
Consumers of goods and services, as well as health care and education were more widespread in West Berlin. Also, the western part of the city had a more modern and better maintained infrastructure. However, unlike the East Berlin, the West Berlin boasted of basic necessities in abundance, and many quality healthcare and education options to choose from.
2. Economy and Job Opportunities
During the Cold War East and West Berlin represented stark economic divide. West Berlin was included into the capitalist West German economy, when the city was benefited from a free market, big financial investments and so on. This meant that a booming private sector, jobs, and higher wages.
By contrast, as in East Berlin, the economy was centrally planned and oriented towards industries with a collective ownership. The government intended for all citizens to be able to get work, but the jobs were not many and salaries were not high. In the East, the lack of competition and innovation was impoverishing.
3. Cultural and Social Life
West Berlin was vibrant in cultural and social ways and East Berlin was more ideologically, practically little artistic freedom and strict censorship. It became a haven to artists, musicians, intellectuals from around the world. The city was famous for its avant garde art scene, it’s lively nightlife, and international events.
In spite of all that, East Berlin also had its own cultural heritage, dedicated mostly to socialist values and historical importance. Still, the division brought the stark difference between artistic expression and freedom between the two sides.
4. Reunification and Legacy
Falling of the Berlin Wall in 1989 reunified Germany and divisions between east and west were falling. Investments in infrastructure, in education, and most importantly, job creation, were made to rebuild and revitalize East Berlin.
Nowadays Berlin is a divided, united city with a long history. But the difference between East and West Berlin has faded, but there are still traces of the divided city. It is a reminder of unity, but also of the people’s resilience.
Conclusion
The story of whether East or West Berlin was better is unremarkable, but it is clear that during the Cold War West Berlin had much more dynamic living conditions, economy, and cultural scene. Nevertheless, we ought to mention that political ideas, international support, and context of time play a role in these differences.
History had witnessed such a division of East and West Berlin, a division that had been so thoroughly influenced by ideological conflicts that this very city and its people had paid a heavy price for it. Today, Berlin drives as one capital, it is important to remember what happened during this tumultuous period, and to strive to move forward with progress and unity.