The Changing Electoral Landscape of Germany
Over the past seven decades, the colors on the electoral map of the Federal Republic of Germany have undergone a remarkable transformation. Black, red, and yellow have gradually given way to more green and blue, reflecting the changing political landscape of the nation.
To visualize this evolution, ZEIT ONLINE has recalculated the results of all Bundestag elections since 1949 for the current 299 constituencies, enabling a comparative analysis. Each constituency is shaded in the color of the party that received the most second votes in the respective election.
Moving the slider left and right reveals the colors of previous or subsequent elections. The map thus serves as a time-lapse journey through seven decades of German history. Some constituencies have experienced frequent changes in their dominant party, with Wahlkreis 34, Osterholz – Verden, holding the record for 13 color changes.
1949: The Birth of the Federal Republic
The first Bundestag election in 1949 saw the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) emerge as the dominant force, securing a majority in 180 constituencies. The Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD) trailed behind with 59 constituencies, while the Free Democratic Party (FDP) claimed 47.
1950s-1960s: Stability and Economic Growth
The 1950s and 1960s were marked by relative political stability, with the CDU retaining its leadership. The FDP also maintained a strong presence, particularly in southern Germany. However, the SPD gradually gained ground, making significant gains in the 1969 election.
1970s-1980s: The Rise of the Greens
The 1970s and 1980s witnessed the rise of the Greens, a new political movement focused on environmental protection. The Greens first entered the Bundestag in 1983 and quickly established themselves as a significant force, particularly in urban areas.
1990s: Reunification and the Changing Political Landscape
The reunification of East and West Germany in 1990 had a profound impact on the electoral landscape. The SPD emerged as the dominant party in the former East, while the CDU remained strong in the West. The Greens continued to grow, while the FDP faced decline.
2000s-2010s: Emergence of the Pirate Party and the AfD
In the early 2000s, the Pirate Party emerged as a new player, advocating for online privacy and copyright reform. The party briefly entered the Bundestag in 2013 but has since declined. The Alternative for Germany (AfD), a far-right party, gained prominence in the 2010s, particularly in eastern Germany.
2021: A New Era Begins
The 2021 Bundestag election marked a watershed moment in German politics. The SPD returned to power after 16 years, forming a coalition government with the Greens and the FDP. The CDU, under the leadership of Armin Laschet, suffered its worst election result since 1949.
Conclusion
The electoral map of Germany is a dynamic and ever-changing tapestry, reflecting the shifting political preferences of the nation’s citizens. From the dominance of the CDU in the early years to the rise of new parties like the Greens and the AfD, the map tells the story of a vibrant and evolving democracy. As the political landscape continues to evolve, it remains to be seen what colors will emerge in future elections.
