Globalization: Germany and the European Union

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Along with every other nation around the globe, Germany has its own unique past. From the days previous to Bismarck to present time, the Germans have undergone significant trials and tribulations. Unfortunately for Germany the world will forever equate German history with Hitler and the Third Reich. As educated people, we need to be able to get past this stigma and appreciate the Germans for who they truly are. After the ending of the Second World War, Germany was divided in two: a free western Germany, and the communist East Germany. West Germany flourished while East Germany struggled to breathe under the heavy shadow of the Soviet Union. In 1990, after the Berlin Wall fell, Germany finally became one again with the union of East and West Germany. This new united Germany had many problems to overcome. Many in West Germany questioned the move, West Germany was enjoying prosperity, politically and economically, and why should they risk it all for unification? East Germany was left in social and economic shambles; would it be possible to rebuild? Progressively, the effect of a united Germany began to be seen, mainly because of the German position within the European Union system and the process of globalization occurring within its borders. A united Germany has been able to take advantage of the new European Union system. Because of German policy and co-operation with the European Union, Germany is now one of the significant leaders in all of Europe. Globalization has brought new ideas, broadened horizons, and produced economic growth within the region. German success within the European Union has been enormous, and without a unified Germany participating in the EU and the process of globalization, former East and W...

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