Thursday, June 22, 2006

Germans flying the flag

It has been a long time coming but it seems that the World Cup has finally given Germans the courage they need to proudly fly their flag.

With Germany successful in the opening round - each day more and more Germans are investing in a flag for their balconies or car. Germany's larger migrant groups have also been very prevalent in their displaying of the German flag.

But it hasn't always been like that. Since its official adoption in post second world war Germany, the German flag's public showing has often been an issue - mainly due to its strong association with Germany's right-wing extremist groups. It's no surprise then that, in order to show impartiality, Berlin's police and council have opted to remain flagless throughout the Cup - a stance that has been harshly criticised in the Berlin media and from various sides of parliament.

The first instance of the current flag being used dates back to the turn of the last century, in the Weimar Republic. Since then it has only been banned once - ironically, by the National Socialists in 1933. al

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