I grew up knowing two German countries—DDR and BRD. There was never such a thing as just one Germany.
I was not more than fourteen when the famous Berlin wall finally took a tumble, but I can remember it like yesterday. It's been 20 years today, but it really doesn't feel like that long ago since those nights in November of '89. Tens of thousands of people gathering at the wall dancing, singing and celebrating the end of oppression, one endless party; tourists flocking to the site chipping away at the cement monument for a little piece of history to bring home.
I can even remember those European road trips we took when I was a kid. Leaving Sweden with the ferry, crossing into East Germany for fast access to the continent. The steady thumping of the car crossing over seams in the cement road every 30 feet rocking us kids to sleep in the back seat (I guess they didn't use asphalt). The frightening boarder crossings—even if we had nothing to hide.
Thank god that all came to an end.
Very interesting indeed!
ReplyDeleteJust to complete Your report, I invite You to see my blog with borders, in which there is also a rich collection of "pre-wall" Berlins (1950-1961).
Best wishes from an Estonian living in Italy!