Berliner Kurier: A History of the Berlin Evening Newspaper
The Berliner Kurier holds a unique place in the media landscape of Berlin, having evolved from a state-controlled publication in the former East Germany to a modern daily. Its journey reflects the political shifts of the region, beginning as a primary source of evening news for the citizens of the German Democratic Republic (GDR).
Origins and the GDR Era
The publication first entered the market on July 15, 1949, under the title BZ am Abend (BZ at evening). It was launched by the Berliner Verlag GmbH, a state publishing house that managed a wide array of titles to disseminate information across the capital.
By 1953, the newspaper's editorial direction shifted as it came under the direct control of the Central Committee of the SED (Socialistic Unity Party), although Berliner Verlag remained the official publisher. For a significant period, it maintained a dominant market position as the only evening and street-selling newspaper available within the GDR.
This exclusivity allowed the paper to reach a wide audience. Until the dissolution of the GDR in 1990, the publication maintained a robust daily circulation of approximately 200,000 copies.
Modern Era and Circulation
Following the reunification of Germany, the publication transitioned into the Berliner Kurier. While it no longer held a state monopoly, it continued to be a notable presence in the Berlin press. By the first quarter of 2010, the newspaper reported a circulation of 120,353 copies.
The publication has also been involved in significant cultural and political discourse. In January 2015, following the attack on the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo—which had previously published drawings of the Islamic prophet Muhammad—the Berliner Kurier featured a controversial front-page cartoon depicting Muhammad reading Charlie Hebdo in a bath of blood.
Key Facts
- Founded: July 15, 1949, as BZ am Abend.
- Original Publisher: Berliner Verlag GmbH.
- Political Control: Managed by the SED Central Committee starting in 1953.
- GDR Peak Circulation: Approximately 200,000 daily copies.
- 2010 Circulation: 120,353 copies (Q1).
Publication Summary
| Period/Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Original Name | BZ am Abend |
| Launch Date | July 15, 1949 |
| GDR Status | Sole evening/street-selling newspaper |
| Circulation (Pre-1990) | ~200,000 copies daily |
| Circulation (Q1 2010) | 120,353 copies |
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Berliner Kurier first published?
The newspaper was first published on July 15, 1949, though it originally launched under the name BZ am Abend.
Who published the newspaper during the GDR era?
It was published by Berliner Verlag GmbH, though editorial control was held by the Central Committee of the SED from 1953 onwards.
What was the circulation of the paper before the end of the GDR?
Until 1990, the newspaper had a daily circulation of around 200,000 copies.
What was the circulation in early 2010?
During the first quarter of 2010, the Berliner Kurier had a circulation of 120,353 copies.
Why was the paper controversial in January 2015?
The paper published a front-page cartoon of the Islamic prophet Muhammad in response to the Charlie Hebdo shootings in France.