The term "Mauerbau" refers to the construction of the Berlin Wall, which began on August 13, 1961. This barrier was built by the German Democratic Republic (GDR) to separate East Berlin from West Berlin. The wall aimed to prevent East Germans from fleeing to the West, as many sought better opportunities and freedoms. The Berlin Wall stood until November 9, 1989, when it was finally dismantled, symbolizing the end of the Cold War and the division between East Germany and West Germany. Its fall marked a significant moment in history, leading to the reunification of Germany and the broader collapse of communist regimes in Eastern Europe.