Berlin Wall: has it really crumbled?

Nov 29, 2019 Estonian Life No. 48 2019

This November, the Western world marked the 30th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. It's physical destruction is a fact. But it's symbolism and importance remains debatable.

A recent study in Russia discovered that one in four young Russians haven't heard of the fall of the Berlin Wall. The survey was conducted by the internationally recognized Levada Centre in Russia whose credibility is in generally acknowledged.

The Wall was more than just a physical barrier. It was an intimidating. symbol of repressive authority that split the totalitarian East and the democratic West after 1961.

It was more than the photos and film footage that people saw on TV. It was 156.4 km long, 111.9 of it constructed in concrete. It included 186 East German observation towers, 259 dog runs. The top of the wall was lined with with smooth pipe, making it hazardous to scale

In 1962 a second parallel fence was built 100 metres further into East German territory. Practically all buildings within that area were demolished and inhabitants forced to relocate elsewhere. This 100 metre wide strip became known as the ‘death strip'. This area was covered with raked sand or gravel, preserving foot prints, easing the detection of intruders and helping superiors to catch guards who had neglected their duties. It offered no cover for potential escapees by giving a clear field of fire for border guards.

In attempting to get over, under or around the wall, at least… (Pikemalt 29.11.2019 Eesti Elu paber- või PDF-/digilehest)
(Read more: EE# 48 29.nov 2019 paper issue or PDF/digileht)

Laas Leivat, Toronto

Berlin Wall: has it really crumbled?

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