First edition published 1961, cover back and front

This slim volume was published during the erection of the Berlin Wall. Berlin, 13. August (the title being the date work began) is witness to the division and enforced separation of family, friends and colleagues within the German metropolis. The booklet was produced by the Federal Ministry for All-German Affairs, so obviously had its own agenda, but does deal with the injustices this construction brought with it, as reflected in the subtitle: SPERRMASSNAHMEN GEGEN RECHT UND MENSCHLICHKEIT (Restrictive measures against rights and humanity). The text is based on „Die Flucht aus der Sowjetzone und die Sperrmaßnahmen des kommunistischen Regims vom 13. August 1961 in Berlin” (Fleeing the Soviet zone and restrictions under the Communist Regime of 13th August 1961 in Berlin) also published by the Federal Ministry for All-German Affairs (Bundesministerium für gesamtdeutsche Fragen) on 7th September 1961.

It appears as if this publication was put together in quite a hurry, to support protesters in their doomed efforts to hinder this notorious undertaking. Nevertheless it is a fascinating record of recent German history, and a powerful document of the powerless cry for justice.

Published by the Bundesministerium für gesamtdeutsche Fragen, Bonn/Berlin, September 1961

Soft cover

48 pages

16 x 21.7cm

Berlin/13. August, 1963

2nd edition published 1963, cover back and front

An extended and updated version of the booklet was published in 1963, with a different cover design and new photographs illustrating the changes since 1961.

Published by the Bundesministerium für gesamtdeutsche Fragen, Bonn/Berlin, September 1961

Soft cover

64 pages

16 x 21.7cm