This film follows the development of the GDR's planned economy from its beginnings to its failure. Germany was a trophy in the struggle between the new powers after two world wars. Here the focus is not only on major political events but also on the spirit of the times as reflected in images from film, photographs, posters, caricatures, popular songs and speeches.

This documentary can be purchased as part of the collection That was the GDR: A History of the Other Germany.