The Tangled Path of Stalin's Reverence in East Germany After WWII

In the post-war years, the German Democratic Republic (GDR), also known as East Germany, became a complex terrain for the reverence of Joseph Stalin. Initially seen as a liberator, the sentiment toward Stalin among GDR citizens evolved into a more complicated affair due to Soviet influence, state propaganda, and ultimately, widespread disillusionment.

Initial Support

In the early years following World War II, many East Germans viewed the Soviet Union as a liberator from Nazi rule. The defeat of fascism was seen as a triumph under Stalin’s leadership, and there was a degree of admiration for Soviet policies and ideology, particularly among communists and leftists. However, this initial support was not uniform and was often tied to anti-fascist sentiment rather than a comprehensive endorsement of Stalin or Soviet ideals.

Forced Ideology

As the GDR government solidified its control, the reverence for Stalin became more of a state-imposed expectation. The ruling Socialist Unity Party (SED) promoted Stalinist ideals and sought to emulate Soviet-style governance, which included the glorification of Stalin’s image and policies. This enforced ideological conformity was a key element in maintaining a strong control over the populace.

Dissent and Discontent

Over time, many East Germans grew increasingly disillusioned with the authoritarian nature of the regime, including the cult of personality surrounding Stalin. The oppressive measures, such as the Stasi surveillance and suppression of dissent, led to widespread feelings of resentment. The 1953 East German uprising, partially fueled by dissatisfaction with the regime and its ties to Soviet policies, was a clear indication of the growing discontent among the populace.

Historical Reassessment

After Stalin's death in 1953, there was a gradual reassessment of his legacy, even within the GDR. The leadership under Walter Ulbricht began to distance itself from Stalinist practices, though they still maintained a strong commitment to Soviet-style communism. This marked a shift in the discourse around Stalin and offered some respite to those who had become disillusioned with the regime’s methods.

A Nod to History: A Story from Walter Ulbricht

Let’s delve into a personal anecdote that illustrates the complex relationship between the GDR leadership and the public. According to Soviet historian S. Kotkin, Ulbricht, the first Communist leader of East Germany, was once at a restaurant where a waitress flirted with him, saying he could grant her one wish: 'Open the wall for just one day.' With a wink, Ulbricht responded, 'You want to be alone with me.' This playful exchange reflects the personal and the political, the desire for personal freedom and the entrenched authoritarianism of the regime.

While this story is fictional, it captures the essence of the relationship between the GDR’s leaders and the governed—a mix of personal charisma and political control.

In summary, the reverence for Stalin in East Germany was initially driven by anti-fascist sentiment but evolved into a more complex and often forced phenomenon. Over time, this reverence transformed into widespread discontent and dissent, reflecting the broader failures of the GDR's authoritarian regime.