How the Berlin Wall Worked

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Understanding How the Berlin Wall Worked

1. Background on Pre-Wall Berlin:

   • Before the construction of the Berlin Wall, Berlin was a city divided into East and West due to post-World War II political divisions.
   • East Berlin was part of East Germany, a socialist state, while West Berlin belonged to West Germany, a capitalist state.
   • Despite the division, people could freely move around the city, with many living in one part and working in the other to benefit from different economic opportunities.

2. Construction of the Berlin Wall:

   • On August 13, 1961, the East German government closed the border, leading to the construction of the Berlin Wall to prevent citizens from fleeing to the West.
   • Initially, the wall consisted of fences and barbed wire, but it was later upgraded to a more permanent structure made of concrete topped with barbed wire coils.
   • Due to shortages of building materials, only 10% of the border initially had the concrete wall, while some houses became part of the wall, with windows bricked up.

3. Escape Attempt and Tragic Stories:

   • Stories like Peter Fechter's attempted escape highlighted the dangers faced by those trying to cross the wall.
   • As the wall was upgraded over the years with increased security features, escape attempts became more challenging, leading to tragic outcomes for many individuals.

4. Evolution of the Berlin Wall:

   • The Berlin Wall underwent several upgrades, transforming into a formidable barrier with various security measures to prevent escape attempts.
   • By 1975, the final version of the wall featured concrete slabs, steel needle mats, signal fences with barbed wire, tank traps, guard towers, patrol paths, and a death strip to deter any crossing attempts.

5. Artistic Expression and Graffiti:

   • The Western side of the wall became a canvas for graffiti and artwork, reflecting the stark contrast between the freedom of expression in the West and the restrictions in the East.
   • The smooth concrete surface of the wall elements provided ample space for artists to create murals and political statements, showcasing the division between the two ideologies.

6. Impact and Legacy of the Berlin Wall:

   • The Berlin Wall symbolized the broader division of Germany and the Cold War era, where many individuals risked their lives to seek freedom in the West.
   • While the exact number of victims remains disputed, the wall's presence left a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by its existence.

7. Escape Attempts and Bold Actions:

   • Some individuals, like G. Wetzel and P. Strelzik, attempted daring escapes, such as building a homemade hot air balloon to fly over the border, showcasing the extreme lengths people went to for freedom.

8. Further Exploration and Resources:

   • For more in-depth information and visuals on the Berlin Wall and escape attempts, you can watch the video "How the Berlin Wall Worked" by neo on YouTube.
   • Consider exploring related documentaries and resources to gain a deeper understanding of the historical significance and human stories associated with the Berlin Wall.

9. Additional Content on Nebula:

   • Check out the creator's Nebula original series, "Under Exposure," for high-quality productions and detailed explorations of historical events and stories.
   • Access exclusive videos and content from creators like Johnny Harris, RealLifeLore, and others on Nebula to delve into a variety of educational topics and narratives.

10. Conclusion:

• Reflect on the impact of the Berlin Wall and the stories of courage and tragedy associated with its existence, highlighting the resilience and determination of individuals seeking freedom amidst political divisions.

By following these steps and exploring the provided resources, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of how the Berlin Wall operated and its significance in shaping the history of Germany and the Cold War era.