The fall of the Berlin Wall, and the chain of events leading up to it,
arguably constitute one of the most thoroughly documented episodes in
recent history. Nonetheless, most accounts have focused predominantly on
high-level politics and diplomacy along with the most dramatic and
photogenic public displays. End Game, a rich, sweeping account of the
autumn of 1989 as it was experienced "on the ground" in the German
Democratic Republic, powerfully depicting the desolation and dysfunction
that shaped everyday life for so many East Germans in the face of
economic disruption and political impotence. Citizens' frustration
mounted until it bubbled over in the form of massive demonstrations and
other forms of protest. Following the story up to the first free
elections in March 1990, the volume combines abundant detail with sharp
analysis and helps us to see this familiar historical moment through new
eyes.