Chapter 9: Poland and Hungary Flashcards
What did Krushchev hope to achieve through the process of de-Stalinisation?
Wanted to redefine the relationhip between the Soviet Union and its Eastern bloc satellite states. Wanted to achieve long term political stability, economic growth and improved living conditions without chnging the basis structure of the communist system.
When was the Secret Speech and what was it?
February 1956. It reported Stalin’s crimes. “Stalin originated the concept of enemy of the people”. The Stalinist system was characterised by cult of personality, centralised planning, a one-party political system, the dominance of the communist party, a secret police system and press censorship.
What happened after Krushchev announced the Secret Speech?
It was circulated throughout Eastern Europe and by June 1956 it had reached the US State Department. The speech had profound implications for stability in th Eastern bloc in 1956 especially Poland and Hungary.
What happened after the Secret Speech in Poland?
Economic grievances led to an anti-Communist armed uprising.
What happened in October 1956 with Gomulka?
He was elected as First Secretary of the Polish Communist Party. He met with Krushchev who threatened military intervention if Gomulka did not cooperate.
What did Krushchev promise Gomulka?
He would be made First Secretary if he agreed not to carry out reforms which may threaten communist rule and Poland would remain in the Warsaw Pact.
Why was force not used in Poland?
Primarily bcause of the support shown from China towards the Polish Communist Party.
What were the impacts in Poland?
Many Poles supported Gomulka, who had successfully balanced Poland’s needs with the needs of the Soviet Union. Showed that Moscow would allow its satellites a measure of national independence if regimes were led by trustworthy men. Part of an increasing role being played by China.
What happened in Hungary?
Students in Budapest demonstrated and listed 16 demands including the appointment of Imre Nagy s PM, the withdrawl of Soviet troops from Hungary, freedom of speech and multi-party elections. The situation then turned into an armed revolt.
After the armed revolt in Hungary, which one of the students demands was fulfilled?
Imre Nagy was made Prime Minister. He met with a Soviet delegation, to reassure them that intervention was not necessary and he argued that the revolt could be calmed and assured Moscow of Hungary’s loyalty. Krushchev agreed to withdraw Soviet forces from Budapest.
What was China’s influence in Hungary?
Pressurised Soviet forces to withdraw (like they had in Poland)
What did Moscow decide on 31th October?
Moscow reversed its decision because it feared the collapse of communism in Hungary.
As a result of Moscow deciding to put its forces back in Hungary, what did Nagy announce on November 1st/
That Hungary had withdrawn from the Warsaw Pact, and declared its neutrality.
As a result of Hungary becoming neutral and withdrawing from the Warsaw Pact, what happened?
Budapest was surrounded by the Red Army and its tanks, and within a few days the rising was crushd and a new government was installed.
What did events in Hungary show?
Lack of intervention from the West confirmed that the postWar status quo had been accepted, UN also did not interfere, moves towarrds peaceful coexistence were compromised and showed there was a need for political and social reform in Eastern Europe.
