It’s a widespread belief that the division between East and West Germany, symbolised by the Berlin Wall, is still evident today in various aspects of German life, from voting patterns to culinary traditions. However, a recent study suggests that this perception oversimplifies a much older cultural and geographical divide. Instead, it points to the ancient Roman boundaries created nearly 1,900 years ago as the true roots of modern Germany’s regional differences.
Around AD 150, after enduring many setbacks in their efforts to subdue the Germanic tribes, the Romans opted to retreat and fortified their territories with an enormous line of barriers. This strategic withdrawal not only marked a crucial point in history but also laid the groundwork for socio-political distinctions that would echo throughout the ages.
In this view, the legacy of Roman governance and territorial delineation played a fundamental role in shaping the identities and practices of the regions that would later become Germany. While the Berlin Wall is significant, its impact pales when contrasted with the deep, historical fissures established by Roman imperial ambitions, which continue to influence German society today.
Recent studies suggest that the significant divisions in modern Germany derive from ancient Roman boundaries established almost 1,900 years ago, rather than the more recent Berlin Wall. Roman fortifications created a long-lasting cultural and political divide, influencing voting behaviours and traditions that still resonate in German life today.
In conclusion, the notion that modern Germany’s divisions are primarily a result of the Berlin Wall is misleading. Instead, the ancient Roman fortifications have a deeper and more lasting impact on regional identities and practices. Understanding these historical roots is essential for grasping the complexities of contemporary German society.
Original Source: www.thetimes.com
