German Electoral System Overview

The video explores Germany's political history, from its constitutional monarchy to the Weimar Republic, Nazi dictatorship, and post-war division. It details the reunification of Germany and the structure of its government, including the Bundestag and Bundesrat. The German electoral system, which combines plurality voting and proportional representation, is explained, along with the formation of coalition governments. The video also covers major political parties and their voter bases, as well as election campaigns and posters.

What was the political system in Germany at the turn of the 20th century?

• A communist dictatorship

• A constitutional monarchy

• A federal republic

• A parliamentary democracy

Where was the capital of the newly reunified Germany decided to be?

• Munich

• Berlin

• Frankfurt

• Bonn

What is the main function of the Bundesrat in the German legislature?

• To elect the Chancellor

• To propose new laws

• To vote on legislation from the Bundestag

• To oversee the judiciary

How often do federal elections take place in Germany?

• Every six years

• Every four years

• Every eight years

• Every two years

What is the purpose of the second vote in the German electoral system?

• To select the President

• To determine the proportion of seats a party gets

• To choose a local representative

• To elect the Chancellor

What happens if a party receives more direct seats than its proportional share in the Bundestag?

• The party loses the extra seats

• The Bundestag size is increased

• The party gains additional funding

• The election is declared invalid

What is the minimum percentage of the second vote a party must achieve to enter the Bundestag?

• 10%

• 5%

• 7%

• 3%

Why are coalition governments common in Germany?

• To ensure equal representation of all parties

• No party usually wins an absolute majority

• It is mandated by the constitution

• It is a tradition from the Weimar Republic

Which party is known for its support among well-educated younger city dwellers?

• The Greens

• The Social Democratic Party

• The Christian Democratic Union

• The Left Party

What is the purpose of election posters in Germany?

• To announce election dates

• To display party slogans and messages

• To list all candidates

• To provide voting instructions