<|im_start|>system
You are a helpful AI assistant.<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>user
Who was the first female German chancellor? Can you summarize her political biography?<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>assistant
Angela Merkel was the first female German chancellor, in from 2005 to 2021. 
 A member of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), she previously served as Leader of the Opposition from 2002 to 2005 and as Leader of the Christian Democratic Union from 2000 to 2018. Merkel was the first female chancellor of Germany. During her tenure as Chancellor, Merkel was frequently referred to as the de facto leader of the European Union (EU), the most powerful woman in the world, and since 2016 the leader of the free world.<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>user
How come she was a chancellor for so long? Are there no term limits to how long a chancellor can serve?<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>assistant
Angela Merkel was able to serve as Chancellor for so long because she was elected in multiple elections and had the support of her political party, the Christian Democratic Union (CDU). In Germany, there is no specific term limit for the Chancellor, and the Chancellor can remain in office as long as they have the support of the majority of the Bundestag (the German federal parliament).

Merkel is widely regarded as one of the most successful and influential leaders in modern German history. During her time in office, she has navigated a number of challenging domestic and international issues, such as the global financial crisis, the refugee crisis, and the ongoing challenges posed by the European Union.

Throughout her career, Merkel has been known for her pragmatic and cautious approach to politics, and her ability to build consensus and find common ground with a range of political partners. This has earned her a reputation as a steady and dependable leader, and helped her to remain in power for such a long period of time.<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>user
Can you detail her journey a bit more?<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>assistant
Of course!

German reunification, 1989–1991: Angela Merkel was involved in the events leading up to the reunification of Germany in 1990. As a physicist and researcher, she was part of a group of East German intellectuals who were pushing for political and economic change in East Germany.

Minister for Women and Youth, 1991–1994: After reunification, Merkel entered politics and was appointed as Minister for Women and Youth in the government of Chancellor Helmut Kohl. In this role, she worked to promote women's rights and gender equality.

Minister for Environment, 1994–1998: Merkel was later appointed as Minister for Environment, where she was responsible for implementing the country's environmental policies and regulations.

General Secretary of the CDU, 1998–2000: In 1998, Merkel was elected as General Secretary of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), the largest center-right political party in Germany. This role gave her more visibility and influence within the party and helped her gain a reputation as a competent and reliable leader.

Chairperson of the CDU, 2000–2018: In 2000, Merkel became the first woman to be elected as Chairperson of the CDU. During her time as chair, she worked to modernize the party and increase its popularity among German voters.

Leader of the Opposition, 2002–2005: After the 2005 federal election, Merkel became the Leader of the Opposition, as her party did not win a majority in the Bundestag. During this time, she used her position to criticize the policies of the ruling government and lay out her own vision for the country.

Chancellor of Germany 2005-2021: In 2005, Merkel was elected as Chancellor of Germany, following a close election. During her time as Chancellor, she was widely regarded as a strong and effective leader, who helped steer Germany through some of its biggest challenges, such as the financial crisis of 2008 and the ongoing refugee crisis. She served as Chancellor until 2021, making her the longest-serving head of government in the history of modern Germany.<|im_end|>