===Domestic policies===
Adenauer's always hewed to a few fundamental principles. He opposed the agglomeration of economic and political power in the hands of the state—the goal of the Socialists, saying it was a danger for the freedom of the individual. he He promoted a division of power between business and the state, in which a limited, controlling function devolves upon the state, offers greater guarantees for the preservation of personal liberties.
Adenauer worked with the economics minister Erhard to promote free enterprise, reduce regulation, strengthen the mark (the currency before the Euro), and promote economic "liberalism" especially in collaboration with the small but influential Free Democratic Party ('''FDP''')<ref>The term "liberalism" in Germany is was then similar to "libertarianism" in the U.S.</ref> He did not oppose labor unions because he needed their support for his foreign policy.
Opposed to extremismleftism, Adenauer acted to make the neo-Nazi Socialist Reich Party illegal in 1952 and the Communist Party illegal in 1956.
He tried but failed to make radio broadcasting a government monopoly.