Proposed+Solution



As Americans we are aware of the cultural diversity that has defined our nation. Apart from the Native Americans who first inhabited this country, all people living in the United States today can trace their roots to other continents. Germany does not share the same history as America. Germany, just as most European countries, is an old nation, and of a much smaller size. As such, the culture is rooted in tradition that is shared by many. Germany in 2010, however, is not the same as Germany in 1945. Many changes have taken place, primarily political, that have created a more diverse population in Germany. As a result of this diverse population, Germany has had to face the challenges of cultural diversity and integration. As we researched the challenge of gaining an understanding of which factors have influenced the German culture since WWII, we discovered a multitude of factors. It is not possible to pinpoint one particular source, as there are so many. Since the end of WWII, so many changes have taken place within Germany: a country was destroyed, displaced people from the East made their way into Germany, a nation was divided by a wall, soldiers from other countries made their homes in Germany, guest workers were asked to help rebuild Germany, many stayed, children were born into mixed unions, the wall came down and two political backgrounds had to reconcile. With each factor, the traditional German culture has evolved. On one street corner you may eat a Bratwurst, or Doner Kebab, or stop in at McDonalds. Lederhosen have been replaced by blue jeans. Muslims share the streets with Catholics and Lutherans. On the radio you will hear songs in German, English, Turkish, and Arabic. Germany can no longer be simply defined by Lederhosen, Dirndl, beer, and Bratwurst. German culture has become increasingly diverse since WWII, and as such, it has become more difficult to define. Furthermore, while Germans have seized the opportunities that have enriched the culture, they have also struggled with issues of tolerance and acceptance. Who is a German? What is a German? These are questions that may never be completely answered, as the solution lies in a constant state of change.