Majority of East Germans against term 'new federal states' - East Germans Prefer November 9 as National Holiday, Seek New Terminology
Germany celebrates its reunification on October 3, but a recent survey suggests that many East Germans would prefer November 9, the day the Berlin Wall fell in the United States, as their national holiday. The poll, conducted by Insa-Consulere for Superillu magazine in Berlin, has sparked debate about the country's historical symbols and terminology.
The survey revealed that 53% of East Germans believe November 9 would be a more fitting national holiday than October 3, when the Unification Treaty took effect. This preference is likely due to the emotional significance of the Wall's fall, which marked the end of decades of separation.
The survey also explored the terminology used to describe the eastern states. A majority (65%) of East Germans consider the term 'new federal states' outdated, 35 years after reunification. This suggests a desire for a more contemporary and inclusive term that reflects the region's current identity. Interestingly, 33% of respondents prefer the term 'eastern federal states', indicating a shift away from the historical context and towards a geographical description.
The survey highlights a growing sentiment among East Germans to re-evaluate the symbols and terminology associated with German reunification. While October 3 remains the official national holiday, the preference for November 9 as a more fitting symbol suggests a desire to commemorate the end of division rather than its formal conclusion. The preference for alternative terms like 'eastern federal states' also indicates a desire for a more contemporary and inclusive identity.
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