Closed borders from "summary" of Iron Curtain by Anne Applebaum
The concept of closed borders was not just a physical reality in Eastern Europe during the Cold War, but a psychological one as well. The Iron Curtain that descended across the continent symbolized the division between East and West, between communism and capitalism, between closed and open societies. This division was not just about preventing physical movement between countries, but also about controlling the flow of information, ideas, and people. Closed borders meant that citizens of Eastern European countries were cut off from the outside world, isolated from new ideas and perspectives. It meant that they were subject to the whims of authoritarian regimes, with no way to challenge or question their authority. Closed borders also had a profound impact on the economies of Eastern European countries. By cutting themselves off from the global market, these countries were unable to benefit from international trade or investment. This led to stagnation, shortages, and economic hardship for millions of peo...
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