As a political science expert with a keen interest in the governance and leadership structures of modern states, I am well-versed in the political landscape of Germany. Germany, officially known as the Federal Republic of Germany, is a federal parliamentary republic. The political system of Germany is based on a division of powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, with a strong emphasis on democratic principles and the rule of law.

The head of state in Germany is the President, who is elected by the Federal Convention for a term of five years and can serve a maximum of two terms. The President's role is largely ceremonial, representing the country at home and abroad, and ensuring the proper functioning of the democratic constitutional state. The President has the authority to dissolve the Bundestag, the lower house of the German parliament, but this is a power that is rarely used.

The Chancellor, on the other hand, is the head of government and holds significant executive power. The Chancellor is elected by the Bundestag and is responsible for proposing and implementing policies, leading the cabinet, and representing the government at the federal and international levels. The Chancellor is the key figure in German politics and is often considered the most powerful office in the country.

Looking at the historical context provided, it's important to note that the rulers of Germany have varied significantly over time. The list of rulers and chancellors you've mentioned includes some of the most prominent figures in recent German history:

- Helmut Kohl served as Chancellor from 1982 to 1998, making him one of the longest-serving chancellors. He is known for his role in the reunification of Germany and for his policies that led to significant economic growth during his tenure.
- Gerhard Schröder followed Kohl, serving as Chancellor from 1998 to 2005. His tenure was marked by efforts to modernize Germany's social welfare system and labor market.
- Angela Merkel, the first woman to hold the office, served as Chancellor from 2005 to 2021. She is one of the most internationally recognized figures in German politics, known for her pragmatic approach to governance and her leadership during various crises, including the financial crisis and the refugee crisis.

It's also worth mentioning that the rulers of Prussia, which was a historical state that played a significant role in shaping modern Germany, had a different set of leaders. Prussia was an absolute monarchy until the end of World War I, and its rulers were known as kings or princes.

In the current political landscape, the President of Germany, as of my last update in April 2023, is Frank-Walter Steinmeier, who has been in office since March 2017. The current Chancellor, who succeeded Angela Merkel, is Olaf Scholz, who took office in December 2021.

The political system of Germany is complex and has evolved over time, reflecting the country's history and commitment to democratic values. The role of the ruler, in the form of the President, and the Chancellor, as the head of government, are integral to the functioning of the German state.

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Rulers of Germany and PrussiaNameBornRuled 1German Federal Republic ChancellorsHelmut Kohl19301991-C1998Gerhard Schr?der19441998-C2005Angela Merkel19542005-C33 more rowsread more >>