Potsdam

views updated May 29 2018

Potsdam a city in eastern Germany, the capital of Brandenburg, situated just south-west of Berlin on the Havel River. It is the site of the rococo Sans Souci palace built for Frederick II between 1745 and 1747, and is associated particularly with the military strength of Prussia.
Potsdam Conference a meeting held in Potsdam in the summer of 1945 between US, Soviet, and British leaders, which established principles for the Allied occupation of Germany following the end of the Second World War. From this conference an ultimatum was sent to Japan demanding unconditional surrender.

Potsdam

views updated May 18 2018

Potsdam City on the River Havel, e Germany; capital of Brandenburg state. During the 18th century it was a residence of the Prussian royal family. The 1805 Peace of Potsdam strengthened the alliance between Russia and Prussia against France. The Potsdam Conference took place here in 1945. Industries: food processing, textiles, pharmaceuticals, electrical equipment. Pop. (1999) 129,500.