Skip to main content

Bush Calls for Glasnost in East Berlin

Author:
Video Rating:
TV-PG
Video Duration:
2:55

On May 31, 1989, in a speech delivered in Mainz, West Germany, President George H. W. Bush emphasizes America's desire to see the barriers between the east and west come down.

FACT CHECK: We strive for accuracy and fairness. But if you see something that doesn't look right, click here to contact us! HISTORY reviews and updates its content regularly to ensure it is complete and accurate.

RELATED CONTENT

The day after the fall of the Berlin Wall on November 20, 1989, President George H. W. Bush met with West German Foreign Minister Hans-Dietrich Genscher to discuss plans for the reunification of Germany. As a token of his gratitude to the United States, Genscher brought President Bush a piece of the Berlin Wall. In a press conference, Bush thanks the foreign minister for the gift.

Bush on the Fall of the Berlin Wall

On January 20, 1989, former Vice President George H. W. Bush took the oath of office and was sworn in as the 41st president of the United States. In his address, Bush reiterates his campaign promise for a "kinder, gentler" nation, and also emphasizes the need to deal with the federal budget deficit.

George Bush

Upon his nomination for president of the United States, George H. W. Bush delivers an acceptance speech at the Republican National Convention on August 18, 1988. Bush folds into his speech many slogans that he will use throughout his campaign, including his reference to the "1,000 points of light" that symbolize America's diversity.

Bush's 1,000 Points of Light

On August 18, 1988, George H. W. Bush received his party's nomination for president of the United States. In his acceptance speech, he calls for a "kinder, gentler nation."

Bush's Kinder, Gentler Nation

Several weeks of pro-democracy demonstrations in the streets of Beijing came to a violent end on June 4, 1989, when the Chinese Army fired on the crowds, killing hundreds. The next day, President George H. W. Bush publicly condemns the event.

Bush on Tiananmen Square

On April 29, 1992, shortly after four white LAPD officers were acquitted in the beating of Rodney King, rioting broke out in Los Angeles. On May 1, President George H. W. Bush delivers a nationally broadcast response to the unrest, which lasted more than a week.

Bush on Los Angeles Riots