The "Soviet Zone" refers to the area of Germany that was occupied by the Soviet Union after World War II. This zone was established in 1945 and included the eastern part of Germany, which later became known as East Germany or the German Democratic Republic. The Soviet Zone was characterized by a communist government and was heavily influenced by Soviet policies. In the Soviet Zone, the economy was centrally planned, and many industries were nationalized. The government implemented various reforms, including land redistribution and the establishment of collective farms. The division of Germany into the Soviet Zone and the Western Zones led to significant political and social differences that persisted throughout the Cold War.