History of Germany

Heuneburg 600 B.C.

2018 Rheinisches Landesmuseum Bonn, Pfalzfelder Säule 1

Trier Porta Nigra BW 2

Stem Duchies and Principalities of the early Holy Roman Empire, map 1

Empire carolingien 768-811

History of Germany encompasses the developments in the region of Germany over the centuries, from the ancient times through the medieval period, the establishment of Prussia, the German Empire, the Weimar Republic, the Nazi era, World War II, the Cold War era with the division into East Germany and West Germany, to the reunification in 1990 and the contemporary Federal Republic of Germany.

Ancient Times

The earliest known inhabitants of the region that is now Germany were the Neanderthals, with the first evidence of human life dating back to around 600,000 years ago. The area was later inhabited by various Celtic tribes, and by the 1st century BC, the region was on the fringe of the Roman Empire. The Romans controlled the area known as Germania, but their hold was tenuous and collapsed by the 5th century AD, leading to the Migration Period.

Middle Ages

Following the fall of the Roman Empire, the region that would become Germany was a patchwork of Barbarian kingdoms. The Frankish Empire under Charlemagne emerged as a dominant force in the 8th and 9th centuries, laying the foundation for modern Germany and France. The Holy Roman Empire, a multi-ethnic complex of territories in central Europe, developed from the eastern portion of Charlemagne's empire and lasted until 1806. During the Middle Ages, the region became economically and culturally advanced, particularly during the High Middle Ages.

Renaissance to 19th Century

The Renaissance brought about a cultural flourishing in Germany, with significant contributions to art, science, and literature. The Protestant Reformation, initiated by Martin Luther in the 16th century, had a profound effect on the region, leading to religious fragmentation and conflicts such as the Thirty Years' War. The 18th century saw the rise of Prussia as a major power under the leadership of Frederick the Great, setting the stage for the unification of Germany.

German Empire to World War I

The German Empire was proclaimed in 1871, following the victory of Prussian-led forces in the Franco-Prussian War. This period, known as the Second Reich, saw Germany become a leading industrial, technological, and scientific power. Tensions among European powers, however, led to World War I, in which Germany was ultimately defeated.

Weimar Republic and Nazi Era

The Weimar Republic (1919-1933) was marked by political instability, economic turmoil, and the rise of extremist movements. The Nazi Party, led by Adolf Hitler, came to power in 1933, establishing a totalitarian regime. The Nazi era culminated in World War II and the Holocaust, resulting in immense suffering and loss of life.

Post-World War II

After World War II, Germany was divided into East Germany and West Germany, becoming a focal point of the Cold War. East Germany was a Communist state under Soviet influence, while West Germany became a democratic state aligned with the West. The Berlin Wall, built in 1961, symbolized this division.

Reunification to Present

The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 paved the way for German reunification in 1990. Since then, Germany has become a leading economic power in Europe and a proponent of European integration. The country faces challenges such as demographic change, the integration of immigrants, and the transition to a sustainable economy.