Publication of the German Bundestag; Ed. Edmund Budrich. This book traces the development of German parliamentary democracy, including its beginnings in 1848, the collapse of the Weimar Republic, the new start after 1945, and continuing on through to the present day. Alongside the historical examination, the book contains a systematic presentation of the work of today's Parliament - the German Bundestag - and its functions, organization, and democratic decision making processes. The book also focuses on the (re-) construction of the Reichstag building in Berlin, a pivotal location for the history of democracy in Germany. Additionally, it paints a portrait of Berlin's parliamentary quarter, which serves as a symbol for German reunification and once again connects the two halves of Berlin, previously divided by the wall for 40 years. This large-sized book is also a photographic documentation of the history of this governing body with its inclusion of 250 color/black and white illustrations.