Chapter 10: End of Cold War

Question 1

Aims of Gorbachev’s policies

Answer 1

D: Glasnost-openness
EX: To preserve a positive image of the USSR, the govt resorted to the use of propaganda, concealing of information and secret police to hush dissidents. This lead to corruption and abuse of power in the government. The government was also inefficient .
A: To encourage transparency and honesty in
the government, glasnost allowed open debates on govt policies and encouraged honesty when faced with problems in the govt. It allowed for criticism of the govt in the media. The people also have access to western media. In exposing the
shortcomings of the govt, Goby wanted to have open discussion so that the govt could address the issues and resolve them.

Question 2

non-intervention policy

ex: ussr’s commitment to support the economy and communist government was a drain on ussr’ economy
Goby adopted de-ideologisation,which means to end activities in order to promote communism globally and challenge the USA

Answer 2

Goby needed resources to implement his economic reforms in USSR. Hence, under Goby, USSR would no longer intervene to support the communist govt in EE / satellite states. Goby also withdrew USSR troops in Afghanistan. [Policy of non-intervention].

Question 3

Reason for the loss of USSR power in Eastern Europe of the USSR

Answer 3

D: Strain on USSR economy
EX: USSR commitment in supporting the economies and communist govt in the satellite states was a drain on USSR
economy. EE people were
increasingly dissatisfied with the communist govt. They blamed them for the repressive society, poor economy and low standards of living in comparison to WE. Resistance from EE such as those in Hungary, Czechoslovakia. and Poland led to suppression by the USSR.
A: Sending troops to suppress resistance in EE was a drain on USSR’s economy. As USSR’s economy became stagnated, they could not afford such expense.