June 17, 1953: Uprising in East Germany

A Turning Point in History

The Beginning of the End of the GDR

On June 17, 1953, an estimated one million people in over 700 cities and towns in East Germany (GDR) rose up in protest against the communist regime. The uprising, sparked by a reduction in work quotas, quickly spread throughout the country, with protesters demanding the release of political prisoners, the resignation of the Socialist Unity Party (SED) government, and free elections.

The uprising was a major turning point in the history of the GDR. It showed that the people were not willing to tolerate the oppressive policies of the regime and that they were determined to fight for their freedom. The uprising also had a significant impact on the Cold War, as it showed the vulnerability of the Soviet bloc and the growing discontent within the GDR.