When was the GDR founded?

EDITORIAL LEARNING AID

Why is this answer correct?

The German Democratic Republic was founded on 7 October 1949, the same year as the Federal Republic. In 1947 there were only administrative structures in the Soviet zone, not yet a separate state. 1953 was the year of the popular uprising, and by 1956 the GDR had already existed for seven years.

7 October 1949: the GDR is founded.

This translation and explanation are editorial learning aids. The official German wording and answer key govern the examination.