The division of Germany into four zones of occupation after World War II was never intended to imply anything other than a temporary arrangement of convenience. Within four years, however, the appearance of two separate German states had become increasingly accepted. Over the coming years, although both were in different ways uncomfortable hybrids, the Federal Republic and the Democratic Republic took on stability and seeming permanence. A long-time specialist in the field, Dr Smyser has written the definitive account of the many twists and turns taken by the postwar 'German question' until the arrival at the 'answer' in the dissolution of East Germany and the end of the four-power occupation of Berlin.