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Describe one impact of the Allied occupation on Germany after World War Two. - OCR Gateway - GCSE History - Question 5 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 5
Describe one impact of the Allied occupation on Germany after World War Two.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Describe one impact of the Allied occupation on Germany after World War Two. - OCR Gateway - GCSE History - Question 5 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Impact of the Allied occupation: Economic Reconstruction
Answer
One significant impact of the Allied occupation on Germany after World War Two was the intensive economic reconstruction initiated by the occupying powers. The Marshall Plan, introduced in 1948, aimed to provide financial aid to rebuild European economies, including West Germany.
This aid facilitated the reconstruction of infrastructure, industries, and the overall economy, laying the groundwork for the 'Wirtschaftswunder' or economic miracle in the 1950s. As a result, West Germany experienced rapid industrial growth, increased productivity, and a significant rise in the standard of living for its citizens. The occupation not only transformed the economic landscape but also helped stabilize Germany politically, fostering a sense of partnership with Western nations.