Inauguration of the Berlin U-Bahn's first line

Berlin's U-Bahn network debuted on September 7, 1904, with the opening of the initial 2.5 km stretch from Stralauer Tor to Potsdamer Platz. Designed by Siemens & Halske, it used electric multiple units and featured innovative third-rail power. The project addressed growing urban congestion amid rapid industrialization. Key figures included engineer Heinrich Schwieger. This line pioneered Germany's subway era, influencing city planning and inspiring expansions that reached over 150 km today. It symbolized technological progress in the Wilhelmine era and supported Berlin's rise as a major metropolis.