The German autobahn turns 90
All over the world, it's the first thing many think of in connection with Germany: the autobahn. A dense network, smooth asphalt, no speed limit. However, it was not, as many believe, a creation of Hitler and the Nazis.
First "intersection-free motor road"
The A555 between Cologne and Bonn was Germany's first "intersection-free motor road." The term "autobahn" only became common later. Already, the defining characteristic was that it had no intersections or traffic lights, only exits and junctions, and always at least two lanes.
Not a Nazi invention
This was the scene 90 years ago. The first stretch, which took three years to construct, was opened to traffic in the presence of Konrad Adenauer, mayor of Cologne and subsequent West German chancellor. His presence, and the date — August 6, 1932 — clearly negates the frequent assumption that the autobahn was a Nazi invention, as the Nazis didn't come to power until the following year.
The "Reichsautobahn" under Hitler
Yet the story of the autobahn is closely interwoven with that of the dictator Adolf Hitler. After Hitler seized power in January 1933, he accelerated the construction of the so-called "Third Reich" autobahns. This propaganda photo shows him breaking ground for the Reichsautobahn Frankfurt/Main—Mannheim on September 23, 1933.
Rapid construction
A section of this autobahn was opened just two years later — an event that was also exploited for propaganda purposes, as seen here. Officially, the Nazis' argument was that the construction of the autobahns would counteract the world economic crisis of the early 1930s, which had plunged Germany into depression. In reality, though, this rapid construction was part of Hitler's preparations for war.
Faster and more modern
The reconstruction and expansion of the autobahns continued after World War II, especially in the western part of now-divided Germany. The autobahns were also modernized, and investment was made in their safety. This picture from 1969 shows the West German transport minister, Georg Leber, inaugurating a radio emergency call system.
A walk on the autobahn
Here's another image that many associate with the history of the German autobahn. In 1973, at the height of the global oil crisis, Sunday driving bans were imposed across the country, and the autobahns were opened up for people to go for walks.
Deserted
Another picture illustrating the enforced conservation of resources: a section of autobahn in Hamburg, Germany's second-biggest city, completely devoid of cars. Not something anyone is likely to have seen again after 1973.
German "USP"
Many people know — and love — the German autobahn for one thing in particular: the lack of a general speed limit. On 9,000 kilometers of the network, traffic permitting, you may drive as fast as you like. You can't do that anywhere else in Europe. But it's controversial in Germany, too: Critics say a general speed limit would be good for the environment and increase safety on the roads.
Eternal construction site
The autobahn is never truly finished. There's always construction and repair work going on somewhere — as here, on the original stretch of the A555, to ensure the old girl still looks good after 90 years. Happy birthday, Autobahn!