Why are Bremen, Hamburg, and Berlin city-states?

Bremen as well as Hamburg and Berlin are city-states, as they are independent federal states within the Federal Republic of Germany. These city-states have the same rights as the other federal states, but due to their special historical, political, and geographical circumstances, they have the status of their own administrative units.

Bremen and Hamburg were once significant commercial and port cities that sought strong economic and political independence. Over time, they were able to establish a special position within the German state structure and were consequently recognized as city-states. Berlin, on the other hand, was divided into four sectors after World War II and was located in the middle of the GDR. After the reunification of Germany, Berlin was designated as an independent federal state with the status of the capital.

The city-states thus have a special significance for German politics and represent the diversity and independence of the Federal Republic. Although they are small compared to the territorial states, they still have a strong political voice and contribute significantly to Germany's cultural diversity and economic development.