Protests Against the Shah of Iran in West Berlin
Protests erupted in West Berlin in response to the arrival of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi of Iran, gathering significant public opposition against his authoritarian regime. During the demonstrations, police intervened violently, leading to the death of Benno Ohnesorg, a student, who was shot by a police officer. His killing sparked outrage among protesters and later contributed to the formation of the radical group Movement 2 June, reflecting the growing discontent in Germany against perceived state oppression.
Benno Ohnesorg was shot by police during protests.
The protests opposed the autocratic rule of the Shah.
Ohnesorg's death led to the rise of radical activism.
The event highlighted youth discontent in West Germany.
What Happened?
In the early months of 1967, anticipation grew around the state visit of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi of Iran to West Berlin. The Shah's regime was widely criticized for its authoritarianism and human rights violations, leading to significant unrest among students and leftist groups in West Germany. On June 2, a large protest was organized in opposition to the Shah's visit, highlighting the tensions surrounding his policies and the situation in Iran. As thousands gathered in the streets, the atmosphere became increasingly charged with political fervor. Police were deployed to manage the protests, which they viewed as a threat to public order. In a violent clash between protesters and law enforcement, Benno Ohnesorg was shot and killed by a police officer, an incident that became a flashpoint for escalating tensions not only in Berlin but across Germany as a whole.
Ohnesorg's death resonated deeply with the public, symbolizing state repression. The brutality witnessed that day galvanized many young people, leading to the establishment of the Movement 2 June, a radical leftist group that sought to confront what they perceived as the injustices of the state. This movement aimed to bring attention to issues related to imperialism, capitalism, and authoritarianism, reflecting a broader wave of student activism and political engagement throughout the late 1960s.
Why Does it Matter?
The events surrounding the protests and the death of Benno Ohnesorg had a lasting impact on German society and the political landscape. It marked a significant moment in the rise of radical leftist movements in West Germany, as the Movement 2 June emerged to oppose both domestic policies and foreign influence perceived as oppressive. The incident also underscored the growing discontent among youth against governmental authority and established a pattern of protest that would continue throughout the late 20th century.