Germany Votes to Phase Out Nuclear Energy by 2022

Germany's Bundestag voted overwhelmingly to phase out nuclear energy by 2022, marking a historic shift for a major industrialized nation. The decision, spurred by the Fukushima nuclear disaster, mandates the immediate closure of eight plants and the gradual shutdown of the remaining nine. This move positions Germany as a global leader in abandoning nuclear power.

In parallel, lawmakers approved the most extensive constitutional reform since the Federal Republic's inception. This "federalism reform" redefines the division of responsibilities between the federal government and the states, aiming to clarify and streamline governance. The reform passed with broad cross-party support, indicating a consensus on the need for structural change.

The Bundestag's actions also recall significant past events. Germany's 1996 European Football Championship victory, secured by Oliver Bierhoff's "golden goal," is remembered. Additionally, the article notes the 1981 premiere of the American TV series "Dallas" and the 1936 US publication of Margaret Mitchell's "Gone with the Wind."