* Eastern Germany: Communist state, controlled by the Soviet Union.
* Western Germany: Democratic state, controlled by the United States, France, and the United Kingdom.
Economic differences
* Eastern Germany: Centrally planned economy, focusing on heavy industry and collectivized agriculture.
* Western Germany: Market economy, focusing on light industry and services.
Social differences
* Eastern Germany: Suppressed civil liberties, lack of freedom of speech, and limited travel opportunities.
* Western Germany: Strong civil liberties, freedom of speech, and extensive travel opportunities.
Cultural differences
* Eastern Germany: Socialist culture, emphasizing collectivism and equality.
* Western Germany: Capitalist culture, emphasizing individualism and competition.
Overall, eastern and western Germany were very different after World War 2. These differences were the result of the political, economic, social, and cultural changes that occurred in each region during the war and its aftermath.