Part 10/16:
By 1953, widespread discontent culminated in a large-scale revolt. Food shortages, long working hours, and political repression fueled protests beginning on June 17. Initially focusing on labor conditions, protests quickly expanded into demands for political freedoms and German reunification. The uprising spread across numerous cities, involving not only workers but also civil servants.
The Soviet Union responded decisively—sending troops and tanks to suppress the rebellion—resulting in dozens of deaths and the arrest of protest leaders. The aftermath of the uprising led to tighter surveillance and increased repression by the Stasi (East Germany’s secret police), making dissent even more dangerous and entrenched.