Date of Award

Spring 5-16-2026

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Advisor(s)

Jose Aleman, Ph.D.

Second Advisor

Oliver Murphey, Ph.D.

Abstract

This paper aims to explain the current political divide between East and West Germany and to investigate whether Erinerungskultur (memory culture) plays a role in this divide. This paper argues that Erinerungskultur played a crucial role in perpetuating the divide. After many years have passed since the reunification, several notable differences between the regions have persisted, particularly in politics. One such difference is the politics of both regions, especially after the most recent election demonstrated a clear blue sweep in the East. This paper will examine the history of both the Federal Republic of Germany (the Western and current state) and the German Democratic Republic (the Eastern state). After that, the paper will dive into the modern rhetoric used by the German far-right and to what extent the East is embracing it compared to the West.

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