Angela Merkel, a retired German politician and chemist, made history as Germany's first female Chancellor, serving from 2005 to 2021. Before her chancellorship, she led the Christian Democratic Union and served as Leader of the Opposition. Her influential leadership extended beyond Germany, earning her recognition as the European Union's de facto leader and a global powerhouse. Merkel's impact solidified her legacy as a transformative figure in German and international politics.
1926: Birth of Horst Kasner
Horst Kasner, Angela Merkel's father, was born in 1926.
1928: Birth of Herlind Kasner
Herlind Jentzsch, who would later become Angela Merkel's mother, was born in 1928.
1930: Kasner Family Changes Name
In 1930, Angela Merkel's paternal grandparents, Ludwik and Margarethe Kasner, changed their surname from Kaźmierczak to Kasner.
1949: Historical Significance of FDP's Absence
The FDP's failure to enter parliament in 2013 marked a significant event, as it was the first time since 1949 that the party fell short of the required votes.
1949: CDU's Worst Election Performance Until 1998
The year 1949 witnessed the CDU's lowest point in federal elections until their defeat in 1998, highlighting a significant political shift.
July 1954: Birth of Angela Merkel
Angela Dorothea Kasner was born in July 1954, in Hamburg, West Germany.
1954: Birth of Angela Merkel
Angela Dorothea Kasner was born in 1954, in Hamburg, West Germany.
1954: Kasner Family Moves to East Germany
Driven by Horst Kasner's pastorate, the family relocated to Templin in East Germany in 1954, a move that significantly shaped Angela Merkel's upbringing.
1957: Historical Context of Election Results
The 1957 election held historical significance as it marked the last time a single party achieved an absolute majority in the Bundestag until Merkel's near win in 2013.
1968: Merkel Joins the Free German Youth
In 1968, Angela Merkel joined the Free German Youth (FDJ), the official communist youth movement in East Germany.
1973: Release of Favorite Film
'The Legend of Paul and Paula,' Angela Merkel's favorite film, premiered in 1973 in East Germany.
1973: Merkel Begins Studies at Karl Marx University
Angela Merkel began her studies in physics at Karl Marx University in Leipzig in 1973.
1977: First Marriage
At 23, Angela Kasner married Ulrich Merkel, a physics student, in 1977, taking his surname.
1978: Merkel Completes Physics Studies
In 1978, Angela Merkel completed her studies in physics at Karl Marx University, laying the foundation for her later academic pursuits.
1978: Merkel Begins Work and Studies at Central Institute for Physical Chemistry
In 1978, Angela Merkel embarked on her career at the Central Institute for Physical Chemistry of the Academy of Sciences in Berlin-Adlershof, where she also pursued her studies.
1981: Meeting Joachim Sauer
Angela Merkel first met Joachim Sauer, a quantum chemist and her future husband, in 1981.
1982: Divorce
Angela Merkel and Ulrich Merkel divorced in 1982.
1986: Merkel Earns Doctorate and Continues Research
Angela Merkel achieved a significant milestone in 1986 by earning her doctorate in quantum chemistry. Following this, she dedicated her time to research and authored several academic publications.
1986: Merkel Earns Doctorate in Quantum Chemistry
Angela Merkel completed her doctorate in quantum chemistry in 1986, showcasing her scientific background.
November 1989: Fall of the Berlin Wall Sparks Merkel's Political Journey
The fall of the Berlin Wall in November 1989 marked a pivotal moment in history and served as the catalyst for Angela Merkel's entry into politics.
1989: Revolution of 1989
The Revolution of 1989 marked the fall of the Berlin Wall and the beginning of the end for communist rule in East Germany, paving the way for German reunification.
February 1990: Merkel Joins Demokratischer Aufbruch and Becomes Press Spokeswoman
In February 1990, Angela Merkel actively engaged in the burgeoning democracy movement by joining the Demokratischer Aufbruch (DA) party. Her capabilities led to her appointment as the party's press spokeswoman.
April 1990: Merkel's Party Merges with Christian Democratic Union
As political landscapes shifted, April 1990 saw the merging of Angela Merkel's party, the DA, with the East German Christian Democratic Union, which later united with its western counterpart following German reunification.
1990: Merkel Elected to Bundestag and Appointed Minister for Women and Youth
The year 1990 marked Angela Merkel's successful election to the Bundestag, representing the Stralsund – Nordvorpommern – Rügen constituency. Her accomplishments led to her appointment as Minister for Women and Youth in Chancellor Helmut Kohl's cabinet.
1990: Merkel Elected to the Bundestag
Following German reunification, Angela Merkel was elected to the Bundestag, the German federal parliament, in 1990.
1990: Merkel's Time at Central Institute Ends
After 12 years, Angela Merkel concluded her work and studies at the Central Institute for Physical Chemistry of the Academy of Sciences in Berlin-Adlershof in 1990.
November 1991: Merkel Unsuccessfully Runs for CDU Leadership in Brandenburg
Angela Merkel sought to expand her leadership role within the CDU by running for the state leadership position in Brandenburg in November 1991. However, she faced defeat against Ulf Fink.
1991: Merkel Appointed Minister for Women and Youth
As a rising figure in the CDU, Angela Merkel was appointed Minister for Women and Youth in 1991.
1991: Annual Portrait Sittings
Starting in 1991, Angela Merkel began sitting annually for portraits by artist Herlinde Koelbl, accompanied by interviews.
June 1992: Government Rewrites Abortion Law
In June 1992, the German government made changes to § 218 of the StGB, allowing abortions until the 12th week of pregnancy. Despite her personal opposition to abortion, Angela Merkel abstained from voting on the bill.
June 1993: Merkel Elected Leader of CDU in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
June 1993 marked a significant achievement for Angela Merkel as she was elected leader of the CDU in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, succeeding her mentor, Günther Krause.
1994: Merkel Becomes Minister for the Environment and Nuclear Safety
Angela Merkel's political career reached new heights in 1994 when she was appointed Minister for the Environment and Nuclear Safety, raising her public profile and giving her a platform to further her political ambitions.
1994: Merkel Appointed Minister for the Environment
In 1994, Angela Merkel became Minister for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety, a position that foreshadowed her later focus on environmental issues.
1995: Merkel Instrumental in UN's Berlin Climate Change Conference
Playing a key role in environmental affairs, Angela Merkel was instrumental in organizing the United Nations' 1995 Berlin Climate Change Conference, which resulted in the first international agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
1995: Dog Attack
Angela Merkel developed a fear of dogs following an incident in 1995 when she was attacked by one.
1996: Right to Preschool Education Codified
The right to preschool education was formally established in law during Angela Merkel's tenure in government; however, the law only came into effect in 1996.
1998: CDU Loses Federal Election, Merkel Becomes Party's Secretary General
After the CDU lost the 1998 federal election, Angela Merkel took on the role of the party's general secretary.
1998: Second Marriage
Angela Merkel married Joachim Sauer in 1998, marking the beginning of her second and enduring marriage.
1998: Merkel Becomes CDU Secretary-General After Election Defeat
Following the CDU's defeat in the 1998 German federal election, marking their worst performance since 1949, Angela Merkel took on the role of the party's Secretary-General.
1999: Merkel Oversees CDU Victories and Calls for Renewal
Under Angela Merkel's leadership as Secretary-General, the CDU achieved a series of victories in six out of seven state elections in 1999. Amidst a party funding scandal, she publicly criticized her former mentor, Helmut Kohl, advocating for a fresh start for the party.
April 2000: Merkel Elected First Female Leader of CDU
Breaking barriers, Angela Merkel was elected Chairperson of the CDU in April 2000, making history as the first woman to lead a major German political party.
2000: Merkel Elected Leader of the Christian Democratic Union
In 2000, Angela Merkel was elected leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), marking her growing influence within the party.
February 2001: Merkel Faces Internal Party Competition
February 2001 saw potential challenges to Angela Merkel's leadership within the CDU as Friedrich Merz expressed his intention to become Gerhard Schröder's main challenger in the 2002 election.
2002: Merkel Cedes Candidacy to Stoiber in Exchange for Parliamentary Leadership
In a strategic move, Angela Merkel agreed to let Edmund Stoiber challenge Gerhard Schröder for the Chancellorship in the 2002 election. In return, she secured the position of leader of the CDU/CSU faction in the Bundestag.
2002: Merkel Becomes Leader of the Opposition
Angela Merkel assumed the role of Leader of the Opposition in 2002, a significant step in her political career.
2002: Merkel Defeats Merz for Opposition Leadership
In 2002, Angela Merkel emerged victorious over Friedrich Merz in the contest for leadership of the opposition. This victory marked a pivotal point in her political trajectory.
2002: Merkel Becomes Leader of the Opposition
Following Edmund Stoiber's defeat in the 2002 elections, Angela Merkel assumed the position of Leader of the Opposition in the Bundestag, as previously agreed upon. This transition involved Friedrich Merz being replaced in the role to make way for Merkel's leadership.
2003: Merkel's Stance on Iraq War and Turkey's EU Accession
In 2003, Angela Merkel expressed her support for the invasion of Iraq, terming it as "unavoidable," despite facing significant public disapproval. During this period, she also voiced her criticism against the government's backing of Turkey's entry into the European Union, proposing a "privileged partnership" as an alternative.
2003: Merkel's Constituency Renamed
In 2003, the boundaries of Angela Merkel's constituency were slightly altered, leading to its renaming as Vorpommern-Rügen – Vorpommern-Greifswald I.
2004: Church Merger
The Evangelical Church in Berlin-Brandenburg, to which Merkel belonged, merged with the Evangelical Church in Silesian Upper Lusatia in 2004.
May 2005: Merkel's Nomination and Campaign Challenges
In May 2005, Angela Merkel secured the CDU/CSU nomination, challenging Chancellor Gerhard Schröder in the federal elections. Despite starting with a substantial lead in polls, the campaign faced setbacks. Merkel's confusion between gross and net income during a debate and the proposal of a flat tax by her appointed Finance Minister, Paul Kirchhof, impacted their standing. Although she recovered by distancing herself from certain proposals, she remained less favored than Schröder.
September 2005: Close Election Results and Formation of Grand Coalition
The September 2005 elections resulted in a very tight race between Merkel's CDU/CSU and Schröder's SPD. Neither party achieved a clear majority, necessitating the formation of a grand coalition.
November 2005: Agreement on Grand Coalition and Merkel's Path to Chancellorship
After three weeks of negotiations, a grand coalition agreement was reached in November 2005, with Merkel as Chancellor and the SPD holding a significant portion of cabinet seats. This agreement, involving compromises from both sides, was approved, marking a significant development in German politics.
November 2005: Merkel Elected as Chancellor
On November 22, 2005, Angela Merkel was elected as the Chancellor of Germany, receiving the majority of votes in the Bundestag. Despite this victory, a notable number of votes against her, including from the governing coalition, highlighted the political complexities and the challenges that lay ahead.
2005: Merkel Becomes First Female Chancellor of Germany
In 2005, Angela Merkel was elected chancellor of Germany, making her the first woman to hold the position.
2005: Healthcare Reform as a Key Issue
During the 2005 elections, the reformation of Germany's healthcare system emerged as a significant point of discussion, with the existing system facing criticism for inefficiency and bureaucratic complexities.
2006: Healthcare Reform Deal and its Implications
A healthcare reform deal was passed in 2006 after extended negotiations. While some considered it crucial for the government's stability, the deal faced widespread criticism for its perceived limitations and for increasing the financial burden on employers and insured employees. It introduced a mandatory health insurance requirement, ensuring coverage for all citizens through public or private means. The reforms also highlighted the importance of preventive healthcare, particularly for the elderly.
2007: Merkel's Role in Advancing Renewable Energy at G8 Summit
Angela Merkel played a pivotal role in the 2007 G8 summit negotiations, which resulted in a considerably more ambitious commitment to transitioning towards renewable energy than initially anticipated. Her efforts contributed to advancing the global agenda on climate change and sustainability.
2007: Encounter with Putin's Dog
During a 2007 press conference, Vladimir Putin brought his Labrador Retriever, an action that Merkel perceived as a display of power.
October 2008: Merkel's Handling of Financial Crisis and Guarantee of Savings Deposits
In October 2008, in the wake of the Irish government's decision to secure all private savings accounts, a move Merkel initially opposed, she faced pressure and ultimately declared that Germany would also guarantee such deposits. However, it was later revealed that this pledge lacked legislative backing and was primarily a political strategy. Most European governments ultimately opted to either enhance the existing limits or provide full guarantees for savings.
2008: Merkel Attends First G20 Summit
Angela Merkel attends the first ever G20 summit in 2008.
2008: Merkel Stands by 2008 NATO Decision on Ukraine
In April 2022, a spokesperson for Angela Merkel affirmed her stance on the decision taken at the 2008 NATO summit in Bucharest, where she opposed Ukraine's membership in the alliance. This decision had come under intense scrutiny and debate in light of Russia's invasion.
2008: Merkel's "Wandel durch Handel" Policy Scrutinized After Russian Invasion of Ukraine
Merkel's time in office was closely associated with the policy known as "Wandel durch Handel," which advocated for maintaining close economic ties with authoritarian governments, believing this would lead to democratization. After Russia invaded Ukraine, this policy was questioned, with many blaming Merkel for the crisis, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
2008: The Effects of the 2008-2009 Financial Crisis
The 2008-2009 financial crisis had a lasting effect on the political landscape, influencing approval ratings and policy decisions.
October 2009: Merkel's Re-election and Second Cabinet
The 2009 elections saw Merkel's CDU being re-elected with an increased number of seats, leading to the formation of a coalition government with the FDP. Merkel's second cabinet took office in October 2009.
2009: Budget Deficit in Healthcare System
In 2009, Germany faced a substantial budget deficit of €11 billion in its public healthcare system, prompting the need for reforms and adjustments to address the financial strain.
2009: Merkel Announces Plans to Stimulate Economic Growth
Merkel revealed plans in 2009 to take on more government debt in order to encourage economic growth, stating this was a higher priority than other fiscal issues. The Merkel government's tax policy during this time was criticized, as people felt they should increase tax rates for higher incomes instead of taking on more debt.
September 2010: Coalition Government Publishes Long-Term Plan for Sustainable Development of Electrical Grid
In September 2010, the coalition government released their plan for reaching sustainable development of the electrical grid by 2050. The plan, which was amended after the Fukushima nuclear disaster, was called the Energy Transition, and also set a goal to reduce greenhouse emissions by 40% by 2020.
October 2010: Merkel's Controversial Remarks on Multiculturalism
In October 2010, while addressing young members of her party, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Angela Merkel sparked a heated debate by stating that attempts to establish a multicultural society in Germany had "utterly failed." She emphasized the importance of immigrants integrating into German culture and values, igniting discussions about immigration policies and social cohesion.
November 2010: Announcement to Abolish Conscription
Following discussions during the summer of 2010, the German government, led by Merkel, revealed its plans to end conscription in Germany, transitioning the Bundeswehr into a volunteer force.
2010: "Alternativlos" Named Un-word of the Year
A jury of linguistic scholars named Merkel's frequently used term "alternativlos," meaning "without an alternative" in German, the Un-word of the Year in 2010. Many felt the wording, which Merkel used to describe her approach to the European sovereign-debt crisis, was undemocratic, as it shut down any opportunity for discussion or dissent.
2010: Merkel Supports Global Financial Transaction Tax
In 2010, Merkel voiced support for a global financial transaction tax, though it was ultimately unsuccessful.
2010: Healthcare Reforms and Public Response
In 2010, Merkel's government implemented healthcare reforms to tackle the budget deficit. These reforms, while aimed at reducing healthcare expenditures and increasing employer and employee contributions, faced criticism from opposition parties and trade unions due to their perceived burden on workers.
July 2011: Suspension of Conscription
Conscription in Germany was officially suspended on 1 July 2011, marking a significant shift in the country's military approach.
August 2011: Decline in Merkel's Approval Ratings
Despite unemployment decreasing to under 3 million in 2011, Merkel's approval ratings saw a significant drop by August 2011, resulting in considerable losses for her party in state elections. The impact of the 2008-2009 financial crisis continued to influence the political climate.
2011: Merkel's Approval Rating Reaches Lowest Point Since 2011
In October 2015, Angela Merkel's approval rating dropped to its lowest point since 2011, highlighting the growing public concern and political divisions surrounding her handling of the migrant crisis.
2011: Death of Horst Kasner
Horst Kasner, Angela Merkel's father, passed away in 2011.
February 2012: Merkel's Approval Rating Reaches All-Time High
Merkel's handling of the euro crisis contributed to her popularity, with her approval rating peaking at 77% in February 2012.
December 2012: Merkel's Support for Ukraine-EU Association Agreement
In December 2012, Angela Merkel voiced her support for the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the European Union. However, she emphasized that its implementation hinged on Ukraine's commitment to undertaking necessary reforms.
2012: Satirical Portrayal
'The Dictator,' a political satire film released in 2012, featured Swiss actress Anna Katarina portraying Angela Merkel.
2012: Merkel Named Second Most Powerful Person in the World by Forbes
Forbes magazine recognized Merkel as the second most powerful person in the world in 2012, behind only Barack Obama, marking the highest ranking ever held by a woman.
2012: Public Statement of Faith
In 2012, Merkel openly discussed her Christian faith, emphasizing its importance in her life and advocating for Christians to stand up for their beliefs.
June 2013: Merkel Refers to the Internet as "Uncharted Territory"
During U.S. President Barack Obama's visit to Berlin on June 19, 2013, in the context of the 2013 mass surveillance disclosures, Merkel stated that "the internet is uncharted territory for us all." The statement became the subject of ridicule and memes online.
September 2013: Merkel's Decisive Victory and Coalition Challenges
The September 2013 election saw Merkel secure a significant victory, achieving the best results for the CDU/CSU since German reunification. However, their preferred coalition partner, the FDP, failed to secure enough votes to enter parliament, leading to the need for alternative coalition formations.
December 2013: Formation of the Third Grand Coalition
With the FDP's absence from parliament, the CDU/CSU entered negotiations with the SPD, resulting in the formation of the third grand coalition in postwar German history and the second under Angela Merkel's leadership. This coalition agreement led to the establishment of Merkel's third cabinet, which took office in December 2013.
2013: Merkel's Call for European Innovation and Competitiveness
During the 2013 World Economic Forum in Davos, Angela Merkel highlighted the economic realities facing Europe. She pointed out that while Europe constituted only 7% of the global population and generated 25% of global GDP, it shouldered almost 50% of global social expenditure. Merkel stressed the need for Europe to prioritize innovation and compete on a global scale to maintain its prosperity.
2013: Alternative for Germany Political Party Founded
The Alternative for Germany political party was established in 2013, taking its name from Merkel's expression "alternativlos."
2013: Merkel's Polish Heritage Revealed
A 2013 biography of Angela Merkel brought wider attention to her Polish heritage, highlighting her family's history and background.
2013: Merkel's Party Sees Decline in Votes Compared to 2013 Election
In the 2017 federal election, Angela Merkel's party, while securing victory, experienced a decrease in vote share compared to the 2013 election. This decline reflected evolving public sentiment and political landscape.
March 2014: Merkel Becomes Longest-Serving Incumbent Head of Government in European Union
On March 26, 2014, Merkel became the longest-serving incumbent head of government in the history of the European Union.
July 2014: Continued High Approval for Merkel
Merkel's approval rating reached another high point in July 2014, demonstrating continued public support for her leadership.
2014: Address to British Parliament
Demonstrating her linguistic abilities, Angela Merkel delivered a portion of her address to the British Parliament in English in 2014.
2014: Merkel Supports Israel's Right to Self-Defense
During the 2014 Israel-Gaza conflict, Angela Merkel expressed her support for Israel's right to self-defense. She directly conveyed her condemnation of rocket attacks targeting Israel to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
2014: 'Bruges' Premiere
The play 'Bruges,' part of Nick Awde's 'Europeans Trilogy,' premiered in 2014, featuring Angela Merkel as a central character.
January 2015: Merkel Claims "Islam is Part of Germany"
During a state visit from Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu in January 2015, Merkel said that "Islam is part of Germany." The statement was controversial, even within her own party. Parliamentary group leader Volker Kauder retorted that while Muslims belong in Germany, Islam does not.
August 2015: Germany Suspends Dublin Regulation and Welcomes Syrian Refugees
In August 2015, during the peak of the European migrant crisis, Angela Merkel's government took the significant step of suspending the Dublin Regulation. This decision allowed Germany to process asylum applications from Syrian refugees, even if they entered through other EU countries. It marked a turning point in Germany's response to the crisis.
September 2015: Germany Experiences Influx of Asylum Seekers Amidst Mixed Reactions
September 2015 saw Germany receive almost 1.1 million asylum seekers, a direct result of the open-door policy. While many Germans warmly welcomed the newcomers, the influx also fueled anti-immigration sentiments and protests.
October 2015: Merkel's Refugee Policy Sparks Political Debate and Approval Rating Decline
By October 2015, Merkel's handling of the migrant crisis had sparked a heated political debate in Germany. Her approval ratings fell to their lowest since 2011, reflecting the divided public opinion on her policies.
November 2015: Germany Tightens Asylum Policies in Response to Paris Attacks
Following the November 2015 Paris attacks, Germany reevaluated its stance on the EU migration policy. Although not imposing a cap on immigrant numbers, Merkel introduced more stringent asylum measures, including enhanced vetting of migrants for security reasons.
December 2015: Merkel Named Time's Person of the Year
In December 2015, Merkel was awarded the title of Time magazine's Person of the Year, with the magazine calling her the "Chancellor of the Free World."
2015: European Migrant Crisis
In 2015, Angela Merkel's handling of the migrant crisis sparked debate, with critics arguing that her policies impacted the EU's stability.
2015: Merkel Announces Increased Contributions to International Climate Aid and Financing
In 2015, in preparation for the Paris Climate Change Conference, Merkel shared that Germany would be increasing their contributions to international climate aid and financing by 2020.
2015: Merkel's Unbroken Attendance at G20 Summits
By 2015, Angela Merkel became the sole leader to have participated in every G20 summit since its inception in 2008, with the exception of Stephen Harper. Her attendance record extended to an impressive fifteen summits by 2021.
August 2016: Merkel's Approval Rating Fluctuates Following Terror Attacks
The Würzburg train attack and other European terror attacks in August 2016 caused Merkel's approval rating to plummet to 47%. This reflected a growing unease among Germans about the potential link between the influx of migrants and terrorism.
October 2016: Merkel Visits Mali and Niger to Address Root Causes of Migration
In October 2016, Merkel undertook a diplomatic visit to Mali and Niger. The objective was to collaborate with their governments on improving conditions that forced people to flee and explore ways to curb illegal migration.
November 2016: Public Opinion on Merkel's Chancellorship Remains Divided
In November 2016, polls revealed a divided German public regarding Merkel's potential candidacy for another term. Despite facing criticism over her handling of the migrant crisis, a considerable portion of the population still expressed support for her leadership.
2016: Merkel as a Global Leader
By 2016, Angela Merkel was often described as the leader of the free world, reflecting her international influence.
2016: Merkel Criticized for Lack of Action on Climate Change
Merkel received criticism in 2016 from observers who felt her actions to address climate change that year were insufficient.
2016: Documentary Release
'Angela Merkel – The Unexpected,' a documentary film about Merkel's life and career, was released in 2016, produced by Broadview TV and MDR in collaboration with Arte and Das Erste.
2016: 'Tervuren' Premiere
'Tervuren,' the final play in Nick Awde's 'Europeans Trilogy,' debuted in 2016, again featuring Angela Merkel as a prominent character.
2016: Merkel Called "the Liberal West's Last Defender"
Following Donald Trump's election as US president, The New York Times called Merkel "the Liberal West's Last Defender."
May 2017: Merkel Critical of US at G7 Summit
At the May 2017 Group of Seven's leaders meeting in Sicily, Merkel was critical of the United States' efforts to back out of previous commitments regarding climate change. She stated that the discussions were challenging and conflictive.
December 2017: Public Opinion Divided on Merkel's Leadership
A YouGov survey conducted in late December 2017 revealed that only 36% of respondents desired Merkel to remain Chancellor until 2021. This contrasted with a significant portion of those surveyed who called for a change in leadership.
2017: Merkel Critiques Trump Administration's Decision to Withdraw from the Paris Agreement
Merkel denounced the Trump administration's choice to pull out of the 2015 Paris Agreement in 2017 and instead reinforced the commitment of the other G20 members to the treaty.
2017: Rise of Right-Wing Populism in Germany Linked to Migrant Crisis
The 2017 German federal election saw the rise of the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which campaigned on an anti-immigration platform. This surge in right-wing populism was partly attributed to anxieties surrounding the migrant crisis.
2017: Merkel Hosts Twelfth G20 Summit in Hamburg
In 2017, Angela Merkel hosted the twelfth G20 summit in Hamburg, demonstrating Germany's prominent role on the global stage.
2017: Merkel Faces Challenges to Her Leadership Ahead of the 2017 Elections
In 2016, leading up to the 2017 German federal election, Angela Merkel faced fluctuating approval ratings and increasing public scrutiny as she navigated the complexities of the migrant crisis and its impact on German society.
2017: Public Health Episodes
From 2017 onwards, Angela Merkel experienced occasional episodes of shaking in public, which she attributed to dehydration.
2017: Merkel Secures Fourth Term as Chancellor Amidst Political Shifts
Angela Merkel's party secured victory in the 2017 federal election, granting her a fourth term as Chancellor. However, both her party and its coalition partner experienced a decline in votes compared to 2013, signifying shifting political dynamics.
March 2018: Merkel's Fourth Cabinet Takes Office
The Fourth Merkel cabinet, formed after a lengthy negotiation process, was sworn in on March 14, 2018, marking the start of her fourth term as Chancellor.
June 2018: Seehofer's Ultimatum and Merkel's Negotiations on Border Control
In June 2018, Interior Minister Horst Seehofer issued an ultimatum to Merkel, threatening to implement stricter border controls unilaterally. Although he temporarily agreed to cooperate while Merkel engaged in EU negotiations, he later rejected the reached agreement.
June 2018: Merkel Addresses Post-War Expulsions of Ethnic Germans
On World Refugee Day in June 2018, Angela Merkel made a significant statement, asserting that there was no moral or political justification for the expulsion of ethnic Germans from Central and Eastern European countries after World War II. Her remarks touched upon a sensitive historical issue with lasting implications.
July 2018: Merkel and Seehofer Reach Compromise on Border Control
After weeks of tension and negotiation, Merkel and Seehofer reached a compromise in July 2018 regarding border control, averting a potential government crisis. The agreement involved tighter border security measures while preserving the governing coalition.
October 2018: Announcement of Stepping Down from CDU Leadership
In October 2018, Angela Merkel made the significant announcement that she would not seek re-election as the leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) at the party conference scheduled for December 2018.
December 2018: Kramp-Karrenbauer Succeeds Merkel as CDU Leader
In December 2018, Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, widely regarded as Merkel's preferred successor, was elected as the new leader of the CDU.
December 2018: Merkel Remains Chancellor, Plans for the Future
Despite stepping down as CDU leader, Merkel affirmed her intention to continue serving as Chancellor until the next federal election in 2021. She also stated that she had no plans to pursue any political office after her term ended.
2018: Merkel Steps Down as CDU Leader
Angela Merkel stepped down as leader of the Christian Democratic Union in 2018, signaling a transition in her political career.
2018: Merkel Named Most Powerful Woman in the World for 14th Time
In 2018, Merkel broke her own record when she was named the most powerful woman in the world for the 14th time by Forbes.
August 2019: Merkel Hints at Return to Academia
In August 2019, Angela Merkel hinted at the possibility of returning to academia after her term as Chancellor concluded in 2021.
September 2019: Government Announces Climate Change Mitigation Policies
In September 2019, the Merkel government revealed a series of climate change mitigation policies and a budget of €54 billion. The package was criticized by environmental protection groups and opposition parties who felt it was inadequate and ineffective. Climate scientists also denounced it.
2019: Government Commission Approves Plan to Phase Out Coal Power Plants
A government commission, appointed by the coalition government, decided to phase out coal power plants by 2038 in 2019 and dedicated €40 billion to this plan.
2019: Death of Herlind Kasner
Herlind Kasner, Angela Merkel's mother, passed away in 2019.
2019: Merkel Supports Balanced Budget over Increased Investment
Merkel argued for the importance of maintaining a balanced budget in 2019, rather than increase investment to stimulate growth.
2019: Merkel Criticized for Stance on China
Merkel faced criticism for not taking a hard line with the People's Republic of China, choosing to focus on non-interference in their internal affairs. This was exemplified when Merkel was reportedly enraged that Foreign Minister Heiko Maas met with Hong Kong dissident Joshua Wong.
2019: Merkel Described as "the World's Most Successful Living Politician"
The Atlantic wrote that Merkel was "the world's most successful living politician, on the basis of both achievement and longevity" in 2019.
2019: Speculation about Kramp-Karrenbauer's Potential Early Chancellorship
Throughout 2019, media outlets speculated about the possibility of Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer assuming the role of Chancellor earlier than planned, contingent upon the stability of the existing governing coalition.
February 2020: Kramp-Karrenbauer Resigns as CDU Leader
In February 2020, Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer announced her decision to step down as the leader of the CDU. This came after party members in Thuringia went against the party's official stance, causing political turmoil.
February 2020: Merkel Advocates for Moderation in Germany's COVID-19 Response
In late February 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic emerged, Merkel, drawing on the expertise of a dedicated crisis team, advocated for a balanced and measured approach to containment policies, avoiding extreme or universal measures.
March 2020: Merkel Delivers Historic Speech on COVID-19 Pandemic
On March 18, 2020, Merkel delivered a powerful and poignant speech on the COVID-19 pandemic. She drew parallels to the challenges faced during World War II, underscoring the gravity of the situation and urging collective action.
April 2020: Merkel Calls for European Solidarity During Pandemic Crisis
In April 2020, amidst the escalating COVID-19 pandemic, Merkel emphasized the need for unwavering European solidarity. She urged member states to provide mutual support, emphasizing that the bloc's strength and resilience were paramount in overcoming the crisis.
2020: Germany Meets Goal for Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction
Germany achieved its goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40% from levels recorded in 2020. This was largely attributed to the reduced demand during the COVID-19 pandemic.
September 2021: Merkel Acknowledges Putin's Shift Towards Conflict
In her interview with Alexander Osang, Merkel revealed that towards the end of her chancellorship in September 2021, it had become evident that Putin was leaning towards conflict. She pointed out that he had disengaged from the Normandy format talks, signaling his intentions.
September 2021: Feminist Identity
In a significant statement in September 2021, Angela Merkel publicly identified as a feminist, a topic she had largely avoided during her political career.
November 2021: Announcement of Olaf Scholz as Merkel's Successor
On November 23, 2021, following the victory of the SPD in the federal election, a new grand coalition was announced, with Olaf Scholz nominated as Angela Merkel's successor.
December 2021: Merkel's Tenure Ends, Scholz Takes Office
On December 8, 2021, Angela Merkel's time as Chancellor of Germany officially came to an end as Olaf Scholz was sworn in, ushering in a new era in German politics.
2021: CDU Loses Direct Mandate in Merkel's Constituency
In the 2021 German federal election, the CDU experienced a setback by losing the direct mandate in Angela Merkel's constituency.
2021: Merkel Faces Calls for Leadership Change
In December 2017, public opinion polls indicated that a significant portion of German voters desired a change in leadership before the end of the legislature in 2021, signaling potential challenges to Merkel's continued chancellorship.
2021: Armin Laschet Elected as New CDU Leader
In the 2021 CDU leadership election, Armin Laschet emerged victorious, succeeding Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer as the party's leader.
2021: European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) Blamed for Contributing to Global Energy Crisis
Critics of Merkel's decision to phase out both coal and nuclear plants, in support of the European Commission's Green Deal plans, blamed this decision and the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) for contributing to the global energy crisis.
2021: Merkel's Record-Breaking G20 Attendance
By 2021, Angela Merkel had achieved a remarkable feat by attending a record-breaking fifteen G20 summits.
2021: Merkel's Planned Retirement as Chancellor
As planned in 2018, Angela Merkel retired as Chancellor in 2021, marking the end of her 16-year tenure.
2021: Merkel Retires as Chancellor
After a long and influential tenure, Angela Merkel retired as Chancellor of Germany in 2021.
January 2022: Friedrich Merz Becomes CDU Leader
Less than two months after Angela Merkel stepped down from her role, her long-standing political rival, Friedrich Merz, assumed leadership of the CDU. This marked a significant shift in the party's leadership dynamic.
February 2022: Merkel Condemns Russia's Invasion of Ukraine
On February 25, 2022, just one day after Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine, Angela Merkel issued a statement vehemently condemning the act. She characterized it as a "war of aggression" and a grave breach of international law, signifying a deeply troubling turn of events in post-Cold War Europe.
June 2022: Merkel's First Public Remarks on Ukraine Since Leaving Office
On June 1, 2022, Angela Merkel made her initial semi-public comments regarding political matters since her departure from office. Speaking at a retirement celebration for Reiner Hoffmann, the president of the German Trade Union Confederation, she denounced Russia's actions as a "blatant violation of international law." She also expressed unwavering support for Ukraine and emphasized that peace and freedom should never be taken for granted.
June 2022: Merkel Defends Past Decisions on Ukraine, Condemns Putin's Actions
In her first public statement since stepping down, delivered during an interview with journalist Alexander Osang on June 7, 2022, Angela Merkel defended her previous decisions regarding Ukraine. She characterized Putin's aggression as not only unacceptable but also a grave miscalculation by Russia, representing a clear violation of international law.
2022: Merkel's Handling of Russia Criticized Following Invasion of Ukraine
When Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, Merkel's diplomacy and détente policies during her time as Chancellor were criticized, with many feeling she had not done enough to prevent this. Critics argued that Germany and Europe as a whole were left vulnerable due to her reliance on Russia for natural gas.
2022: Merkel Receives Nansen Award for Compassion During Migrant Crisis
In 2022, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees honored Angela Merkel with the prestigious Nansen Award. This recognition celebrated her "courage and compassion" in handling the European migrant crisis, despite facing criticism.
2022: European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) Blamed for Contributing to Global Energy Crisis
Critics of Merkel's decision to phase out both coal and nuclear plants, in support of the European Commission's Green Deal plans, blamed this decision and the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) for contributing to the global energy crisis.
2022: Merkel's Foreign Policy Focus and Criticism
Angela Merkel's foreign policy centered around strengthening European collaboration and promoting international trade agreements. Her approach, often linked to the concept of "Wandel durch Handel" (change through trade), drew criticism, particularly following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Despite this, she is widely recognized as the de facto leader of the European Union during her tenure as Chancellor.
2022: Germany's Greenhouse Gas Emissions Increase
After successfully meeting their goal in 2020, Germany's greenhouse gas emissions increased in 2022 to a level above the target amount.
April 2023: Last Nuclear Power Plants Shut Down in Germany
As part of the Energy Transition plan, April 2023 marked the closure of the last nuclear power plants in Germany.
2023: Honorary Doctorate
In 2023, the Paris Institute of Political Sciences awarded Angela Merkel an honorary doctorate, recognizing her significant political contributions.
November 2024: Release of Merkel's Memoir, "Freiheit"
Angela Merkel's memoir, titled "Freiheit" (Freedom), is scheduled for publication in November 2024. The book, co-authored with her long-time aide and advisor, Beate Baumann, is expected to offer insights into her time in office and her perspectives on various global issues.
2038: Target Date for Phasing Out Coal Power Plants
2038 was selected as the target to finish phasing out coal power plants in Germany.