Ossis and Wessis
Introduction
The terms "Ossis" and "Wessis" are colloquial expressions used in Germany to refer to the citizens of the former East Germany (GDR) and West Germany (FRG) respectively. The terms originated after the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, and the subsequent reunification of Germany in 1990. They reflect the cultural, economic, and social differences that existed between the two German states during the period of division, and continue to persist in some aspects even after reunification.
Historical Context
The division of Germany into East and West was a direct result of the political and ideological differences between the Allied powers after World War II. The term "Ossis", derived from the German word "Ost" for east, was used to refer to the citizens of the German Democratic Republic (GDR), a socialist state under the influence of the Soviet Union. On the other hand, "Wessis", derived from the German word "West", referred to the citizens of the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG), a capitalist state under the influence of the Western Bloc.
Cultural Differences
Despite sharing a common language and history, the cultural differences between Ossis and Wessis were significant. These differences were shaped by the contrasting political ideologies of socialism and capitalism, and were evident in various aspects of life such as education, employment, and lifestyle.
Education
In the GDR, education was heavily influenced by socialist ideology. The curriculum emphasized the collective over the individual, and promoted the values of equality, solidarity, and labor. In contrast, the FRG education system was more individualistic, with a greater emphasis on competition and achievement.
Employment
Employment in the GDR was characterized by full employment policies, with the state providing jobs for all its citizens. The FRG, on the other hand, had a market-based economy where employment was subject to supply and demand.
Lifestyle
Lifestyle differences were also evident. In the GDR, the state provided for basic needs such as housing, healthcare, and education, leading to a more uniform standard of living. In contrast, the FRG had a more diverse range of living standards due to the market economy.
Economic Differences
The economic differences between Ossis and Wessis were stark. The GDR had a planned economy, where the state controlled all aspects of production and distribution. The FRG had a market economy, characterized by private ownership and competition.
After reunification, these economic differences led to significant challenges. The former GDR states had to transition from a planned to a market economy, leading to high unemployment rates and economic hardship for many Ossis. The government implemented various programs to address these issues, but economic disparities between the former East and West Germany persist to this day.
Social Differences
Social differences between Ossis and Wessis were also significant. The GDR was a surveillance state, with the Stasi secret police monitoring the activities of its citizens. This created a culture of mistrust and fear among Ossis. In contrast, Wessis lived in a democratic society with greater personal freedoms.
These social differences have had lasting effects. Studies have shown that Ossis tend to be more skeptical of authority and less trusting of institutions compared to Wessis.
Conclusion
The terms "Ossis" and "Wessis" reflect the deep-seated differences that existed between East and West Germany during the period of division. While reunification has brought about significant changes, the legacy of these differences continues to shape the social, cultural, and economic landscape of Germany.