Soviet ultimatum demanded withdrawal of all armed forces from Berlin in June 1961. East Germany sought to stop population migration through Berlin. Kennedy undercut his bargaining position by accepting permanent division. US announced $3.25 billion military spending and new divisions
Germany is the largest country in Central Europe with 16 states. Berlin, Bremen and Hamburg are three major city-states. Germany is a federal republic with 16 states and a federal president. Germany is the richest and most populous EU member state
East Germany established in October 1949 as German Democratic Republic. Formed as Soviet satellite state after WWII occupation. Ruled by Socialist Unity Party (SED) from 1949 to 1989
Germany was divided into two states after WWII: West Germany (1949) and East Germany (1949). Hungary's border removal in 1989 opened the gap between East and West Germany. The Pan-European Picnic in August 1989 triggered mass East German exodus
Iron Curtain opened between Austria and Hungary on August 19, 1989. East Germans began fleeing to Hungary via Czechoslovakia and West German embassy. East German border with Czechoslovakia reopened on November 1
Germany spans north-central Europe, from Alps to North German Plain. Berlin serves as reunified Germany's capital after WWII. Country features diverse landscapes including mountains, plains, and forests. Rhine River flows through Germany, celebrated in art and literature