Creating German Communism, 1890-1990 -

The title refers to a landmark historical work by Eric D. Weitz, which provides a comprehensive social and political history of the movement from its roots in the late 19th century through the collapse of the German Democratic Republic (GDR) in 1990. Overview of the Movement's Evolution

Under Nazi rule, the KPD was suppressed, with members fragmented into resistance groups, prison camps, or exile in the Soviet Union. Creating German Communism, 1890-1990

After WWII, the Socialist Unity Party (SED) was formed in East Germany. Weitz argues that the intransigent, militaristic, and gendered political culture forged in the Weimar streets directly influenced the rigid governance of the GDR. Core Themes in German Communism The title refers to a landmark historical work by Eric D

The leadership of the GDR ultimately became tragically removed from the desires of its people, remaining "imprisoned" in the confrontational policies of their early history. Creating German Communism, 1890-1990 After WWII, the Socialist Unity Party (SED) was

The movement venerated "heroic proletarian men" and "physical prowess" as the ultimate revolutionary qualities. While the party's program officially supported egalitarianism, the reality of street fighting often masculinized its image and alienated many women.