What Was the USSR’s Perspective on the Berlin Wall?
The concrete barrier in Berlin was constructed in August 1961 and has become an emblem of the Cold War and the division between two systems. But what was seen by the USSR of this famous division? In this article, it is necessary to look at the point of view of the Soviet Union in relation to the Berlin Wall.
1. The Purpose of the Berlin Wall
The USSR was backing the construction of the Berlin Wall, considering this step as the only possible one to protect its assets in the GDR. To the Soviet regime the wall was seen as a way of preventing brain, human and other capital flight from East Germany to West Germany. They believed that this brain and manpower drain would reduce the strength and sleep and be a threat to the stability of eastern European countries.
Thus, by building the Iron Curtain, the Soviet Union sought to prevent citizens from fleeing to the West to have a better way of life and find freedom. From their perspective the construction of the wall was a practicality in order to safeguard the Socialist state as well in East Germany.
2. Control and Influence
The Berlin Wall was also used as a political bar and an authoritative manner in which the Soviet Union would assert dominance over East Germany. In this way, by limiting freedom of mobility, the USSR controlled Eastern Europe and did not allow the non-Socialist elements to penetrate its territory. It benefited East Germany by enabling its separation from the West through political, economic and social integration while ensuring that the Soviet type of political culture was being maintained.
3. Propaganda and Cold War Rhetoric
It is thus important to explain how propaganda influenced the USSR’s outlook on Berlin Wall. Further, the wall was used the Soviet authorities as a propaganda tool in order to justify the wall as a means of protection against ‘imperialist revenge’ propelled by the West. The USSR appeared to be the guardian of the socialist state’s principles, which was guarding East Germans from the reckless western traditions.
The Soviet authorities portrayed West Germany as economically rich but sinful, while presenting the East part as the socialist heaven they had built. From the same narrative there was an attempt to enhance the east and the west divide and gain support for the soviet order.
4. Impact on Diplomatic Relations
The construction of the Berlin Wall affect the relations of the USSR with the west especially America. It was criticized by Western countries that considered the wall as violation of rights of individuals and freedom of movement.
The USSR, on the other hand, regarded the wall as a measure for the relevant self-defence as well as to ensure that the Eastern bloc stays as it is. Although the wall caused division between the East and the West necessary steps were thought to be taken for the benefit of the Soviet Union and of socialism.
Conclusion
However, the USSR saw it as a necessity for protecting its interests in East Berlin and maintaining its situation in the Eastern Europe region. From their angle they viewed the wall as a protective barrier which would discourage the human capital from seeking opportunities abroad while erecting the socialism against thecapitalist world.
Gaining such knowledge of the USSR thoughts on the construction of the Berlin Wall contributes greatly in the comprehension of the occurrences of the Cold War and the objectives of the USSR in the construction of this icon.
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