东德, or East Germany, officially known as the German Democratic Republic (GDR), existed from 1949 to 1990. It was established in the aftermath of World War II, when Germany was divided into East and West. The GDR was a socialist state aligned with the Soviet Union, characterized by a one-party system led by the Socialist Unity Party. The capital of 东德 was 东柏林 (East Berlin), which was separated from West Berlin by the Berlin Wall from 1961 until its fall in 1989. The GDR was known for its strict government control, limited personal freedoms, and a planned economy. It ultimately dissolved in 1990, leading to the reunification of Germany.