World War Two was a turning point during modern history. Berlin was one city that influenced all of this. This article takes a closer look at the major events in this history in relation to Berlin.
The Prelude: Rise of Nazi Regime
Adolf Hitler and the Nazi party rose to power in 1933 when they came to power. Berlin, capital of Germany, was played a central role by the Nazi regime. Berlin was transformed by Hitler into a propaganda tool of the first order and symbol of Nazi power.a
At the same time, Hitler launched several construction projects to show Third Reich’s power and the pride. They include the grand architecture of the Reich Chancellery and the imposing 3 Reichstag building.
The War Capital: Berlin’s Role
Berlin was the epicenter of all Nazi operations when World War II erupted. Berlin was Hitler’s headquarters; and with his high command. The planning and execution of big military campaigns, like the invasion of Poland and blitzkrieg across Europe could be seen in the city.
Berlin’s location was strategic to its position as the war capital. Because of the citys efficient transportation network troops and supplies could move very fast. Being strategically located to close European countries made it a logistical support hub in Berlin.
The Battle of Berlin
The Battle of Berlin, fought at the end of World War II, had a tremendous effect on the city. Berlin was pounded from both air and ground forces as Allied forces advanced on Germany. The war went on for months, destruction and people killed.
Fierce fighting characterized the battle and the Brandenburg Gate stood witness. Ally bombings reduced the city’s landmark structures and buildings, symbols of Nazi power, to rubble.
On 2nd May 1945 German forces surrendered unconditionally. The proud capital of the Third Reich now lay in ruins — Berlin.
Divided Berlin and The Aftermath
After Germany lost in World War, Berlin became a divided city. Allied powers (United States, Soviet Union, France and United Kingdom) divided the city into their sectors.
The so-called Berlin Wall was built in 1961 separating East Berlin, under Soviet control, from West Berlin, under three Allie occupation. It also symbolized the divide between the democratic West and the communist East, a physical divide.
For decades Berlin was the center of Cold War tensions. It was as though the city put on a stark reminder of ideological divide between the East and the West.
Modern Berlin – A City Reborn
In 1989 Germany reunified and the Berlin Wall came down. This was a moment of its time on the Cold War and changed the face of Berlin.
Since then Berlin has changed dramatically. It is rebuilding and reconstructing many of its historical landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag so that the city can achieve symbols for its dedication to remember and reconstruct itself immersed in its own history.
Today Berlin is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city open and welcoming to visitors from all over the world. The events of World War II are covered in museums, memorials, historical sites, and everything that have to do with the city and its people.
Remembering the Past
Today, visiting Berlin is an opportunity to learn about the atrocities of the Nazi regime, and the follies of World War II. As to gain a deeper understanding into this dark period in history, you can tread through the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe or walk along the Berlin Wall’s remnants.
If we remember and understand what happened, we pay tribute to those who were victimized, and prevent what occurred from happening again.
Conclusion
The role of Berlin in World War II was wide and deep. The city was the stage on which Hitler built his empire, through which Hitler walked, and the site of the devastating Battle of Berlin. Today that journey from the ruins of war to the center of a thriving metropolis is Berlin’s legacy to resilience and the will to do better.