Formation of the Red Army Faction
The Red Army Faction (RAF) was founded in 1970 by Andreas Baader, Gudrun Ensslin, and Ulrike Meinhof. It was a far-left militant organization aiming to overthrow the capitalist system in West Germany.
1970
1977
German Autumn
The RAF was involved in a series of high-profile kidnappings and murders in what became known as the German Autumn, significantly impacting German society and politics.
1982
Second Generation RAF Activities
The second generation of RAF members continued their militant activities, including bombings and assassinations, targeting key figures and institutions in West Germany.
1984
Decline in Activities
By the mid-1980s, the RAF's activities began to decline due to increased security measures and internal disorganization.
1989
RAF Morde 1989 Europa Neuordnu
In 1989, the RAF re-emerged with the Europa Neuordnu (New Order in Europe) initiative, attempting to align their activities with the broader changes in Europe, including the fall of the Berlin Wall.
1990
Reunification of Germany
The reunification of Germany in 1990 posed new challenges and opportunities for the RAF, as the political landscape in Europe underwent significant changes.
1991
Assassination of Detlev Karsten Rohwedder
The RAF claimed responsibility for the assassination of Detlev Karsten Rohwedder, the head of the Treuhandanstalt, which was responsible for privatizing East German enterprises.
1992
Continued Attacks
Despite increased pressure from law enforcement, the RAF continued its attacks, including bombings and targeted assassinations.
1993
Last Major Attack
The RAF carried out its last major attack in 1993, bombing a newly constructed prison in Weiterstadt, causing significant damage but no casualties.
1998
Dissolution of the RAF
On April 20, 1998, the RAF officially announced its dissolution, ending nearly three decades of militant activities.
2001
Publication of RAF Documents
In 2001, former RAF members began publishing documents and memoirs, providing insights into the group's ideology and operations.
2007
Reevaluation of RAF's Legacy
Historians and scholars began a reevaluation of the RAF's legacy, examining its impact on German society and politics.
2010
Exhibitions and Documentaries
Various exhibitions and documentaries were produced, shedding light on the RAF's history and its role in post-war Germany.
2014
Release of Former Members
Several former RAF members were released from prison, sparking debates about justice and rehabilitation.
2020
50th Anniversary of RAF's Founding
The 50th anniversary of the RAF's founding was marked by academic conferences and media coverage, reflecting on the group's historical significance.
