Cold War - Transformations Flashcards
1
Q
What was West Berlin/Germany like before the Berlin Wall? (3)
A
- rebuilt after war using Marshall Plan aid => economically strong
- establishment of new constitution for Federal Republic of Germany => democratic
- made part of NATO 1955 + remilitarised to allow them to defend themselves against the east
2
Q
What was East Berlin/Germany like before the Berlin Wall? (6)
A
- stripped of industrial equipment + goods to pay for reparations to USSR
- many homes still not rebuilt by end of 1950s
- creation of new state under the SED - a strict communist party - in 1949, dictatorship
- creation of secret police (stasi)
- 1953 - a protest against communism was brutally put down by USSR + German government
- 1955 => joined Warsaw Pact
3
Q
Who were the leaders during the events in Berlin?
A
- Khrushchev - USSR
- Kennedy - USA
- Walter Ubricht - East Germany
4
Q
What happened in 1958 regarding West Berlin?
A
1958, Khrushchev gave Eisenhower an ultimatum on leaving Berlin, but USA doesn’t and nothing happened.
5
Q
What was one of the causes for the Berlin Wall that involved East Germans leaving? (3)
A
- East Germans could see how much better life was in West Berlin - where they had freedom + luxury goods.
- Thousands of East Germans permanently crossed over/defected to the west, where they could easily travel beyond the Iron Curtain.
- By 1960, over 3 million East Germans defected with thousands defecting a day by 1961.
6
Q
When was the Vienna Summit?
A
3rd - 4th June 1961
7
Q
Why did the Vienna summit happen?
A
Superpower leaders met to try and repair relations after U2 crisis + Paris peace summit.
8
Q
What happened at the Vienna Summit in relation to Berlin?
A
- Berlin was a major discussion point.
- Kennedy committed to capitalist West Berlin.
9
Q
What did the Vienna Summit establish in terms of relations between the leaders?
A
Khrushchev overpowered Kennedy in discussions, as Kennedy was young + inexperienced in the eyes of many, including Khrushchev.
10
Q
What was achieved at the Vienna Summit?
A
Little achieved at summit => sets tone for superpower relations in upcoming years.
11
Q
How did Khrushchev feel about a wall Pre-1961?
A
Pre-1961, Khrushchev didn’t want a wall as he didn’t want communism to be seen as a prison + didn’t want to accept that Germany/Berlin would never be reunited.
12
Q
Where was the decision made to build the Berlin Wall and what was the reason for it?
A
- Decision was made officially in East Germany, but in reality it was Moscow.
- Reason given was to prevent spies entering Soviet territory from West Berlin.
- It was also admitted that East Germany was losing too many educated people to the West.
13
Q
When was the Berlin Wall built?
A
Early on 13th August 1961, East German troops lined the border of East - West Berlin, and no east Berliners were allowed to pass.
Began middle of Saturday night in USA.
14
Q
How was the Berlin Wall built? (3)
A
- Barbed wire fences put up + trains could no longer cross the border.
- The fences zigzagged through the city, following the original border, running down streets and even splitting cemeteries in 2.
- Over the next 7 days - concrete wall built around West Berlin.
15
Q
Who built the Berlin Wall?
A
Officially East Germans built the wall, but Soviet tanks waited a few miles outside the city ready to intervene if there was any resistance.
16
Q
How did the people react to the Berlin Wall?
A
No protests - people mostly stayed at home. Streets were quiet as wall went up.
17
Q
How did the Berlin Wall affect families?
A
Split families up - became illegal to cross border to visit relatives.
18
Q
How long was the Berlin wall up for?
A
Nearly 30 years.
19
Q
What is an example of people who tried to escape Berlin?
A
1962, 12 pensioners escaped through what became known as ‘senior citizens tunnel’. Led by 81-year-old man. The group spent 10 days digging a 49m long 2m high tunnel.
20
Q
How did the USA react initially to the Berlin Wall? When did everyone find out?
A
US military commanders in West Berlin/Germany couldn’t respond without instructions from leaders. US Secretary of State + other key officials worked early on Sunday morning and JFK wasn’t told until mid-morning.
21
Q
How did JFK + USA officially react to the Berlin Wall?
A
- JFK was angry with USSR, but it was decided that as long as West Berlin was free and could travel between West Berlin and West Germany, no action would be taken.
- The USA sent an official complaint to Moscow but nothing more - East Berlin wasn’t worth a war.
22
Q
What happened in October 1961 that led to another crisis? (3)
A
- October 1961, a senior US diplomat and his wife tried to enter East Berlin to go to the theatre.
- They were refused entry as they wouldn’t show guards their documents.
- So General Clay, a US representative in West Berlin, sent soldiers to accompany the couple through ‘Checkpoint Charlie’.
23
Q
How did the event in October 1961 lead to another crisis? (3)
A
- Led to another crisis between 2 sectors, culminating in Soviet tanks being posted at official checkpoint - Checkpoint Charlie.
- They were in a head-to-head stand off at Checkpoint Charlie.
- NATO + Soviet forces were on full alert and both sides became concerned that the slightest things, like a nervous soldier firing his weapon could cause war.
24
Q
When did the standoff in Berlin end? (3)
A
- When JFK and Khrushchev agreed to reduce tensions by withdrawing their tanks.
- Soviets withdrew tanks about 5 metres first and then USA did the same.
- This continued until the standoff was over.
25
What did the end of the standoff in Berlin confirm?
That even though both sides had nuclear weapons, still very keen not to go to war.
26
What did the Berlin Wall symbolise?
A physical symbol of division.
27
What happened in June 1963 regarding Berlin?
* June 1963 - JFK went to West Berlin, as it gave him chance to get foreign policies of containment back on track, and the chance to show his commitment to these policies at the front line of the Cold War.
* He visited the Wall + looked over into East Germany, before making a speech to 120,000 West Berliners, outlining his beliefs about the evils of communism and the need to protect the freedom of West Berlin.
* He proclaimed, "I am a Berliner" (Ich bin ein Berliner).
28
How did the Berlin Wall transform the Cold War? (3)
* Berlin is no longer a source of tension in Cold War - focus shifts out of Europe.
* Transformed tensions - another flashpoint increases tensions.
* Transformed superpower relations - attempting to talk, but still tension, and the end to Thaw/Peaceful Co-operation.
29
What had happened in/was Cuba like in 1889 and the years following?
* In 1889, USA had helped Cuba become independent from the Spanish Empire.
* In the following years, American business people made huge investments in the country and eventually owned most of the businesses on the island, as well as having a huge naval base there.
30
What had happened in Cuba in 1933 and the years following? (2)
* 1933, Fulgencio Batista Salvador came to power and became the cuban dictator for the next 25 years.
* American investment continued as well as economic/military support.
31
What was Batista's Cuba like?
Batista's Cuba was undemocratic, corrupt and unpopular, with political opposition quickly silenced. However, they were largely anti-communist, hence the support from the USA.
32
How did Castro's revolution begin?(4)
* Castro called for a revolution in 1953, but he was imprisoned and then exiled to Mexico.
* He returned to Cuba in December 1956, with 81 supporters.
* They were called '26th of July Movement', and nicknamed the Los Barbados (the bearded ones).
* They launched a two-year campaign of guerrilla warfare.
33
What was the aim of Castro's revolution?
Their aim was to overthrow Batista and take back power from American business people.
34
When did Castro become leader of Cuba?
On January 1st 1959, Batista fled Cuba, and the following day Castro entered the capital, Havana, declaring a new Cuba.
35
How had Castro positioned his revolution against Batista?
A fight by ordinary Cubans against an oppressive and corrupt regime.
36
How did the USA react to Castro becoming leader of Cuba?
USA recognised Castro as new leader, but showed little interest.
37
Did Castro and Eisenhower meet after Castro became leader?
Castro visited USA, making speeches across the country about how he was willing to work with the USA, but Eisenhower refused to meet with him, despite the issues that had arose.
38
What issues had arose by 1961 in USA relating to Cuba?
* Cuban exiles in USA were forming pressure groups and demanding action be taken against Castro.
* Castro's reorganisation of Cuba involved taking American businesses/industries in Cuba and distributing them, as well as land, to his supporters or keeping them as state property.
39
What did Eisenhower authorise in June 1960, relating to Cuba?
June 1960, Eisenhower authorised the CIA to investigate ways of overthrowing Castro.
40
How did USA disrupt Cuban economy? (2)
* USA disrupted Cuban economy by not buying from sugar plantations, in turn damaging them.
* Also refused to work with any businesses which used imported goods from USSR.
41
What had Castro done by summer 1960?
Castro had allied with USSR, who gave them $100 million in economic aid, and eventually arms.
Cuba was now totally politically aligned with, and economically dependent on the USSR.
42
What did the USA do in February 1962 in response to the events in/with Castro's Cuba?
USA declared a total embargo on Cuba, banning all trade with the country.
43
How did Cuba being communist impact the USA, and what did they do?
Having a country under Soviet control a few miles off the American coast was a source of tension for American government, so as Eisenhower's presidency came to an end in 1960, the CIA drew up a plan to deal with Castro, which Kennedy gave the go ahead to when he came into office.
44
What was the USA's plan to deal with communist Cuba?
The plan was to train a large group of Cuban exiles with the CIA, of whom would launch an invasion of Cuba with the support of the US Air Force. The invasion would inspire other cubans to revolt and overthrow the regime.
45
What were the initial criticisms of the USA's plan to invade Cuba? (2)
* It soon became clear that most Cubans supported Castro, therefore wouldn't help with the revolt.
* Arguments in American government began, suggesting that any sort of invasion would be illegal.
46
Did the invasion of Cuba happen? When?
Having spent $5 million on training the exiles, the CIA couldn't abandon the plan. Kennedy agreed that the invasion should be launched, and on 17th April 1961, Cuban exiles landed on the beach in the Bay of Pigs - Cuba.
47
What did Kennedy decide last minute relating to the Bay of Pigs invasion?
At the last moment, Kennedy decided not to involve US Air forces, and the Cuban exiles were left completely exposed.
48
What happened at the Bay of Pigs Fiasco? (4)
* Of the 1500 ground troops, almost 200 were killed as they landed.
* A further 1197 were captured.
* Cuban people didn't support the invaders, leaving them to be easily defeated by Castro.
* It was made obvious that the USA had been involved.
49
What impacts did the Bay of Pigs Fiasco have on USA and Kennedy?(3)
* failed to achieve its objective
* left USA open to criticism, as its involvement was illegal under international law
* made Kennedy look weak and inexperienced, which was dangerous as he headed into his first meeting with Khrushchev in Vienna, June 1961.
50
What impacts did the Bay of Pigs Fiasco have on Cuba and Castro? (3)
* Castro was able to claim a great victory against a more powerful country.
* However, he was aware he was vulnerable, so began looking for protection.
* This led him to a closer relationship with the USSR, leading to biggest challenge of Kennedy's presidency and the moment of highest tension in entire Cold War.
51
What did being in a close relationship with Cuba mean for the USSR and Khrushchev?
* Having a communist ally so close to USA was an opportunity to seize.
* Would help his aim of increasing Soviet influence in South America.
* Installing missiles in Cuba was a way of showing soviet power, as well as retaliating against US missiles in Turkey.
52
What did USA warn USSR about on 11th September 1962? And how did USSR respond?
* On 11th September, Kennedy warned the USSR, that he would prevent 'by whatever means necessary' Cuba becoming an offensive military base - having a nuclear missile base.
* The same day USSR assured USA it had no need to put missiles in Cuba and had no intensions of doing so, despite having imported warheads to Cuba since Summer 1962.
53
What happened on October 14th 1962 - Cuba? (5)
* American U2 spy plane flew over Cuba + took detailed photographs of missile sites in Cuba, making it clear that they were nuclear and built by USSR.
* More photos confirmed that some sites were done + some were nearly complete.
* Some were already supplied with missiles and others awaiting them.
* Experts said most developed sites could be ready to launch missiles in 7 days.
* 20 Soviet ships were currently on route to Cuba, carrying more missiles.
54
What were JFK’s 5 options in relation to the USSR having missiles in Cuba?
* Do nothing
* Surgical Air Attack
* Invasion
* Diplomatic pressure
* Blockade
55
What were the +/- of JFK ‘doing nothing’ in response to the USSR’s missiles in Cuba?
+ The USA still had a vastly greater nuclear power than the USSR. The USA could still destroy the Soviet Union, so the USSR would never use those missiles. The biggest danger to world peace would be to overreact to this discovery.
- The USSR had lied about Cuban missiles. JFK had already issued his solemn warning to the USSR. To do nothing would be another sign of weakness.
56
What were the +/- of a ‘Surgical Air Attack’ in response to the USSR’s missiles in Cuba?
+ It would destroy the missiles before they were ready to use.
- Destruction of all sites couldn’t be guaranteed. Even one site left undamaged could launch a counter attack on USA.
- The attack would inevitably kill soviet soldier, so USSR might retaliate at once.
- The attack without advance warning was seen as immoral.
57
What were the +/- of an ‘invasion’ in response to the USSR’s missiles in Cuba?
+ Would get rid of missiles and Castro as well. The American forces were already trained and ready to do it.
- Would almost certainly guarantee an equivalent soviet response, either to protect Cuba, or a response within soviet sphere of influence - e.g, a takeover of Berlin.
58
What were the +/- of ‘diplomatic pressure’ in response to the USSR’s missiles in Cuba?
+ Would avoid conflict.
- If USA was forced to back down, it would be a sign of weakness.
59
What were the +/- of a ‘blockade’ in response to the USSR’s missiles in Cuba?
+ Would show USA was serious, but it would not be a direct act of war. Would put the burden on Khrushchev of what to do next. The USA had a strong navy and could still take other options if this one didn’t work.
- Wouldn’t solve the main problem - the missiles were already on Cuba. They could be used within 1 week. The soviet union might respond by blockading Berlin as they had done in 1948.
60
What was JFK’s final decision of how to respond to the USSR’s missiles in Cuba and why? (6)
* Kennedy decided on Blockade.
* Prevented further missiles being brought to Cuba.
* Allowed the USA to act and not look weak, without carrying out a direct act of war.
* Didn’t leave USA without any other options.
* Although it didn’t outright destroy the issue, as we see in the 13 days of crisis - USA did get what they wanted.
* Left USSR and Khrushchev to make responding decisions, putting more pressure on them, not Kennedy and the USA.
61
What happened on Tuesday 16th October 1962 - Day 1 of 13 days of crisis - CMC?
Kennedy is informed of the missile build up. Ex Comm is formed - a special team of advisors.
62
What happened on Saturday 20th October 1962 - Day 5 of 13 days of crisis - CMC?
Kennedy decides on a Blockade of Cuba.
63
What happened on Monday 22nd October 1962 - Day 7 of 13 days of crisis - CMC?
Kennedy announces the blockade and calls on the Soviet Union to withdraw its missiles. 'I call on Chairman Khrushchev to halt and eliminate this reckless and provocative threat to world peace ... He as the opportunity now to move the world back from the abyss of destruction ... withdrawing these weapons from Cuba.'
64
What happened on Tuesday 23rd October 1962 - Day 8 of 13 days of crisis - CMC?
Kennedy receives a letter from Khrushchev saying that soviet ships will not observe the Blockade. Khrushchev doesn't admit the presence of nuclear missiles on Cuba.
65
What happened on Wednesday 24th October 1962 - Day 9 of 13 days of crisis - CMC?
The Blockade begins.
The first missile carrying ships, accompanied by a soviet submarine, approach the 500 mile blockade zone. Then suddenly at 10:32am, the 20 soviet ships which are closest to the zone stop and turn around.
66
What happened on Thursday 25th October 1962 - Day 10 of 13 days of crisis - CMC?
Despite this, intensive aerial photography reveals that work on the missile bases in Cuba is proceeding rapidly.
67
What happened on Friday 26th October 1962 - Day 11 of 13 days of crisis - CMC?
Kennedy receives a long personal letter from Khrushchev. The letter claims that the missiles on Cuba are purely defensive, but goes on: 'If assurances were given that the USA would not participate in an attack on Cuba and the blockade was lifted, then the question of the removal or destruction of the missile sites would be an entirely different question.'
68
What happened on Saturday 27th October a.m 1962 - Day 12 of 13 days of crisis - CMC? (2)
* Khrushchev sends a second letter - revising his proposals - saying that the condition for removing the missiles from Cuba is that the USA withdraws its missiles from Turkey.
* An American U2 plane is shot down over Cuba and the pilot is killed. The President is advised to launch an immediate reprisal attack on Cuba.
69
What happened on Saturday 27th October p.m 1962 - Day 12 of 13 days of crisis - CMC?
Kennedy decides to delay an attack. He also decides to ignore the second Khrushchev letter, but accepts the terms suggested by Khrushchev on 26th October. He says that if the Soviet Union does not withdraw, an attack will follow.
70
What happened on Sunday 28th October 1962 - Day 13 of 13 days of crisis - CMC? (2)
* Khrushchev replies to Kennedy: 'In order to eliminate as rapidly as possible the conflict which endangers the cause of peace ... the Soviet government has given a new order to dismantle the arms which you described as offensive and to crate and return them to the Soviet Union.'
* Kennedy announces the end of the crisis.
71
How was the Cuban Missile Crisis a victory for Khrushchev and the Soviet Union? (3)
* Khrushchev publicly claimed he agreed to remove the missiles from Cuba because of his desire for World peace.
* He had protected Cuba from threat of American invasion.
* He believed this would show that the USSR would stand with other counties in the face of American aggression.
72
What did Cuban Missile Crisis result in for Cuba?
Cuba remained communist, reliant on USSR for protection + financial aid.
73
What did USA do following the Cuban Missile Crisis that benefitted USSR/Khrushchev?
Removed missiles from Italy and Turkey - USA further from Moscow.
74
Why did USSR withdraw from Cuba?
Because he wasn't convinced about Castro's reliability as an ally - knew Cuba came before communism for Castro. Cuba shooting down American U2 plane => shows they're unreliable.
75
What happened to Khrushchev after the Cuban Missile Crisis and why?
* Senior members of Communist party in Moscow were unhappy, as some felt Khrushchev had been reckless + almost brought nuclear war.
* Others felt he had backed down just when USSR had the advantage.
* These concerns, along with his policies on important domestic issues in Soviet Union, led to his removal from power exactly 2 years after Crisis, on 14th October 1964.
76
How was the Cuban Missile Crisis a victory for Kennedy and the USA?
Kennedy had shown strength in standing up against Khrushchev, forcing him to back down. JFK gained a reputation as a world leader + silenced many of his critics.
77
What did the removal of missiles in Cuba mean for USA?
Removal of a great threat, USSR no longer had nuclear weapons within range of USA.
78
Why wasn't the removal of missiles in Turkey and Italy disastrous for the USA?
The removal was secret. Had it been known, it would have been disastrous for JFK. American people + European allies would have likely seen it as a retreat and perhaps a sign that the USA was going back on its commitment to Europe + NATO.
79
How did communication impact the Cuban Missile Crisis?
Misunderstandings and misinterpretations between the 2 sides made communication difficult. The crisis was only resolved when Kennedy + Khrushchev communicated directly with one another.
80
What did USA + USSR do to improve communications in the future?
A hotline/a special phone line between the White House and Kremlin was established, so in any further crises the 2 leaders could speak directly => thaw.
81
What and when was the Partial Test Ban Treaty?
The Partial Test Ban Treaty was signed on August 5th 1963, and stated that USSR, USA + Britain would carry out no further nuclear tests unless they were underground => not in atmosphere, underwater or space.
82
Who refused to join the Partial Test Ban Treaty?
France + China refused to sign and conducted further tests.
83
What impacts did the Partial Test Ban Treaty have?
The treaty didn't remove the weapons that already existed and the threat of nuclear war remained. However, there had been a shift in approach, as both sides accepted that the arms race couldn't continue as it had.
84
Who was to blame for Cuban Missile Crisis?
Though Kennedy is mostly to blame in terms of increasing hostility, Khrushchev was the individual that created the crisis. Kennedy's actions were a direct response to Soviet interference, yet Khrushchev's decision to put nuclear weapons on the island, is the cause of the crisis.
85
Who became leader after Khrushchev and when?
Brezhnev became leader after Khrushchev was forced to resign in 1964. The change in power involved no bloodshed - unusual.
86
Why were people unhappy in Czechoslovakia before the Prague Spring? (3)
* Tightly controlled one party state - communist, that answered to Moscow.
* Economic problems.
* Novotoky = known to be particularly corrupt, even among other senior party officials.
87
What were the initial calls for reforms in Czechoslovakia? (4)
* less central control of the economy + lifting of ban on private businesses
* rights for consumers
* more power for ordinary workers
* government should be more ready to listen to peoples concerns
88
Who suggested the initial reforms in Czechoslovakia, how did USSR react and what happened next?
* Mid 1960s a respected Czech communist - Ota Sik recommended these reforms.
* USSR rejected the suggestions outright, but in 1966, Sik called for full political reform.
* His ideas quickly became popular and Moscow realised that some change would be needed to avoid a revolt.
89
What is Socialism with a Human Face?
Less censorship, more freedom of speech and a reduction in activities of secret police. It's the idea that communism didn't need to be as restrictive as it has been. Reforms were introduced under the policy.
90
What was the Prague Spring - definition?
The attempt by the Czech people to take greater control over the running of their country in 1968. It refers to new ideas of how to rule Czechoslovakia. It lasted 4 months before it was crushed by USSR + other Warsaw Pact members.
91
What was the change of leadership in Czechoslovakia 1967/1968 and what did this new leader do?
Novotoky resigned December 1957 - Dubcek became leader January 1968. He introduced lots of reforms, but remained committed to Warsaw Pact - opposite to Hungary.
92
What reforms did Dubcek initially introduce? (4)
* Remove State controls on industry, allowing Czechs to run own businesses.
* Allowed public meetings + freedom of speech.
* Ended press censorship.
* Gave Czechs right to visit non-communist countries.
93
Why did Brezhnev try and maintain Moscow's influence without making the situation in Prague worse?
Scared Czechs would turn to west for help.
94
How did Warsaw Pact countries feel about the initial events in Czechoslovakia?
Warsaw Pact leaders of East Germany and Hungary especially, were concerned by Czechoslovakia as they thought unrest would spread to their own country. In Poland, student protestors were calling for their own Dubcek.
95
How did Brezhnev react to initial events in Czechoslovakia?
Originally, Brezhnev resisted intervention as he felt as long as communism remained in power + Dubcek remained committed to Warsaw Pact, the situation could be managed.
96
Who did Dubcek begin to gain support from that caused concern - Prague Spring?
Yugoslavia and Romania
97
What 3 further reforms were introduced in Czechoslovakia?
* plans to open borders with Western countries
* removing all remaining press censorship
* possible creation of new social democratic party
98
What happened in June 1968 to try and intimidate Czechoslovakia?
Czech border was chosen as location for Warsaw Pact military exercises by Soviets, Polish + East German troops.
99
What happened July 1968 - Warsaw Pact (Prague Spring)?
Warsaw Pact Summit (didn't include Czechoslovakia). Issued Warsaw Letter to Czech government - letter acknowledged each country had a right to self-determination but also warned that a challenge to the communist system in one country, could risk damaging it as a whole.
100
How did Brezhnev try and work out the issue in Czechoslovakia with Dubcek?
Brezhnev held a series of meetings with Dubcek in hopes of convincing him to reverse reforms - but he didn't listen.
101
What happened on 20th August 1968 - Czechoslovakia?
Soviet forces entered Czechoslovakia and quickly seized control of Prague. They brutally dealt with resistors who fought back. The official soviet line was that they were 'responding to a request from communist party to restore order'.
102
What did Dubcek order upon soviet invasion of Prague?
Despite some initial resistance, Dubcek ordered the Czech people not to resist.
103
How many people were injured/killed in the Prague Spring?
100 protestors killed + 500 wounded.
104
How did the Czechs retaliate to soviet invasion of Prague?
Czechs broadcast the reports of the invasion to the world, describing it as a violation of socialist principles and international law.
105
What happened to Dubcek and Czech government after Prague spring?
* He was arrested and forced to reverse the reforms.
* New soviet style government, loyal to Moscow was established 1969.
* Dubcek was expelled from Party => wasn't put on trial/executed and he returned to politics 20 years later after eventual fall os Soviet Union 20 years later.
106
How did some communists respond to Prague Spring? (2)
* Outrage, particularly from communists in non-communist countries, who saw the actions as a betrayal of communist values and an act of imperialism.
* Protests in China, Yugoslavia and a small short-lived protest in Red square (centre of Moscow).
107
How did Red Army soldiers react to Prague Spring?
Red Army soldiers had been told that their actions had been requested by Czech people, so many soldiers were angry and returned home, telling people what they'd seen and how they'd even manipulated.
108
What did the Prague Spring show to communists/what effect did it have on communism? (2)
* The events showed that governments weren't revolutionaries or committed communists - but concerned only with staying in power.
* Many people lost faith in Communism in 1968.
109
How did the West respond to the Prague Spring? (5)
* USA condemned invasion + cancelled upcoming meeting with USSR.
* Other western countries criticised actions.
* Attempts at UN to pass a resolution condemning the violence, but USSR's veto meant it wasn't possible.
* No further action taken by USA and allies.
* USA was preoccupied with ongoing and increasingly unpopular Vietnam War.
110
What impact did Prague Spring have on superpower relations? (2)
* Cancellation off meeting - prevents improving relationship.
* For USA - further evidence of human rights abuse by USSR, which makes it harder to have a relationship with them.
111
How did the Prague Spring transform the Cold War? (2)
* Reforms during Prague Spring inspired hope for change and freedom in Eastern Europe.
* USSR + Warsaw Pacts's response of military intervention suppressed the reforms and reintroduced the division between East and West => reinforcing Cold War tensions.
112
What were the causes of the Brezhnev Doctrine? (3)
* Prague Spring causes a prominent fear of anti-communism.
* Prague Spring + Hungarian Uprising => fear was if 1 country left communism/warsaw pact, eventually everyone would try, and some may even be successful.
* Brezhnev was scared for the loss of power in Eastern Europe.
113
What did Brezhnev do in November 1968?
Brezhnev made a speech where he outlined his position on any future threats to communism. He was determined to keep communist governments in place.
114
What were the essentials of communism defined as in the Brezhnev Doctrine?
* One-party system
* To remain a member of Warsaw Pact
115
What did the Brezhnev Doctrine prevent?
It wouldn't allow other governments to be brought down by external invades, or internal rebels. And should other countries act like Czechoslovakia, they would face the same outcome.
116
How did Brezhnev's policies differ to Khrushchev's?
Brezhnev established a clear policy for all communist countries, whereas Khrushchev gave himself space to deal with each situation individually.
117
What impact did the Brezhnev Doctrine have on relations with China? (3)
* China = almost 3rd superpower by this point.
* China was in middle of a cultural revolution => destroying 'old' and rewriting everything - Mao was gaining more control of the youth.
* China was concerned Brezhnev was suggesting Soviets would interfere in their revolution somehow. Mao thought Brezhnev was trying to govern all of socialism and wasn't happy about this.
118
What impact did the Brezhnev Doctrine have on relations with USA? (3)
* USA's initial response was to end/all talks/discussions about improving relations or disarmament.
* Changed quickly, as USA (Nixon) didn't want to throw away progress, so decided to view Doctrine as defensive - Brezhnev was concerned with events in communist world + not a threat to USA.
* USA (Nixon) was aware that if they reacted badly, they wouldn't be able to improve relations/meet, which is what they really wanted => Detente.
119
How did the Brezhnev Doctrine transform the Cold War? (3)
* Asserted USSR's right to intervene militarily in any communist countries 'under threat'.
* Solidifies divisions between West and East.
* Heightened tensions slightly => mainly with PRC not USA. USA + USSR go onto detente, so relations not greatly hindered.
120
What was the Situation in Vietnam like by detente times? (4)
* Grown hugely from late 1950s.
* By end of 1960s, the war had cost 58,000 US soldiers lives + became increasingly unpopular in USA.
* By end of 1960s, it was clear that the war was unwinnable + American withdrawal was necessary.
* War ended 1973, when USA withdrew troops and by 1975, communists controlled whole of Vietnam.
121
How did the situation in Vietnam create tensions? (2)
* Continued presence of America in Vietnam was a concern for Soviets and other communist countries, like China.
* American aim had been to halt spread of communism in Asia - seen by USSR as USA attempting to force their ideologies on a region that was embracing communism.
122
How far did the situation in Vietnam create a barrier for Detente? (3)
* President Johnson + Nixon had make it a priority to end the war, but neither could admit defeat.
* American people would find it hard to accept a positive relationship with USSR, while soldiers were dying in the fight against communism.
* Biggest barrier => a conflict, so can't be ignored.
123
What were human rights like in USSR? (3)
* USSRs people = denied civil rights and free speech.
* Khrushchev had eased some restrictions, but Brezhnev cracked down and limited individual freedoms.
* Publication of some books remained illegal + political opponents faced exile in Siberian prison camps - Gulags.
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Why did the human rights issues in USSR create tension? (2)
* Events in Hungary + Czechoslovakia = high profile examples of USSR's lack of respect for human rights.
* Absence of freedom in USSR under communism had a big impact on how USA/West saw USSR; many saw the situation as American freedom vs. Soviet oppression.
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How far was the human rights issues in USSR a barrier for Detente? (3)
* Some calls from West for greater freedom for soviet citizens but western leaders = reluctant to push issue + risk damaging an improving relationship.
* Human rights weren't a priority - could be ignored to a certain extent, and even after detente not really changed that much.
* Concerns didn't disappear though, and human rights issue remained a source of tension between superpowers.
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What were the main reasons for Detente?
* Lessons from conflict
* Economic Factors
* Nuclear Issues
* Sino-Soviet Split
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How were lessons from conflict a reason for detente? (3)
* War in Vietnam had shown that huge military power + possession of nuclear weapons didn't guarantee a victory - USA dropped more bombs in Vietnam than WW2.
* USA + USSR became increasingly able to defend interests without direct intervention.
* Example => conflict in Middle East - USA supported Israel and USSR supported Egypt and Syria. Neither side wanted war, so talking seemed logical.
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How were economic factors a reason for detente? (4)
* Both countries spending billions of $ fighting Cold War + it became increasingly clear no end was in sight.
* Continuing arms + space race at same rate would bankrupt USSR within few years.
* Neither country was able to continue spending so much money on defence.
* In 1969 - West and East Germany, the battle ground of Cold War for so long, it was agreed not to develop nuclear weapons => because they were experienced politicians + old 'cold warriors', Brezhnev + Nixon recognised the time to talk had come.
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How were nuclear issues a reason for detente? (7)
* Arms race reached height 1962 - when world came to brink of nuclear war during CMC. Crisis showed that neither side was willing to use nuclear weapons when they could be destroyed. Marked beginning of attempt at improved superpower relations.
* Partial Test Ban Treaty - 1963 + establishment of ‘hotline’ were first stages in what would later be detente.
* Tensions didn’t disappear - factors like human rights became as important as nuclear weapons by end of 1960s.
* Britain + France’s nuclear weapons were seen by USSR as an addition to American stock.
* China successfully testing a bomb in 1964 - concern for both sides.
* Both sides feared more unpredictable governments could develop nuclear weapons - like China.
* Co-operation could help to limit the spread of the technology.
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How was the Sino-Soviet split a reason for detente? (5)
* Late 1960s - relationship between USSR and China began to deteriorate + eventually broke down.
* Mao didn’t share views of Khrushchev and Brezhnev.
* USA saw it as a great opportunity - communism no longer a single powerful force.
* USSR + China = more willing to work more closely with USA, and Americans were happy to take advantage of the split.
* An improving relationship with China could give USA the advantage in talks with USSR.
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What did the US do in 1971, that largely improved relations with China?
In 1971, the US table tennis team travelled to China for a tournament. It was a highly important trip for US-China relations and became known as ‘ping-pong diplomacy’ - started improved relations for US and China.
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What was Nixon the 1st president to do in February 1972?
February 1972, Nixon became first US president to visit China.
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Why did the US want better reactions with China?
To help with Vietnam war - get soldiers out/end it.
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Why did China want better relations with the USA?
To become recognised as official government of China by UN and to get a seat in UN.
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How important were Brezhnev and Nixon in the change in relations? (5)
* Had a personal relationship that lasted over both of Nixon’s terms of presidency, which allowed them to talk => willingness.
* Some argued it was their experience that allowed them to achieve this relationship.
* Could be argued that as men who held power and influence for decades they had more in common with each other than most thought.
* Both have experienced different points of tension in cold war, as both had been in politics since beginning of cold war => willingness to improve things.
* Without their personal relationship + working together, detente couldn’t have happened. However, they may not have been pushed to this cooperation without the other factors.
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What was detente?
A french word that means relaxation. Refers to the easing of tension that took place between the superpowers in the late 1960s to the late 1970s.
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What was SALT 1 and what was it achieved under?
The Strategic Arms Limitation Talks began in 1969, and were the most serious/formal talks between superpowers. Achieved under Detente.
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What treaties were signed under SALT 1? (2)
* Ban on building of new ballistic missile launchers
* Anti-Ballistic Missiles treaty reduced number of anti-nuclear defense systems that could be built.
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Where and when were the SALT 1 agreements signed?
Moscow Summit May 1972
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What did detente achieve for USA and China?
Nixon's successful visit to China + Ping-Pong diplomacy changed balance of power; relationship between USA + China was stronger - concerned USSR.
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What did Brezhnev and Nixon do in Moscow in relation to detente?
In Moscow, Brezhnev and Nixon agreed to work together + set out guidelines of how they would make SALT 1 work => huge political achievement with personal relationship of Nixon + Brezhnev as key.
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What happened after Nixon won his second term of presidency in November 1972?
After Nixon was reelected, both superpowers were keen to continue to build on achievements of SALT 1 + talks began immediately for SALT 2 (II).
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What further agreements were made under detente? (3)
* Helsinki Accords in August 1975
* SALT II 1979 - although American congress ultimately refused to accept the deal because of Soviet action in Afghanistan.
* Joint space mission in July 1975 - symbolic of new co-operative relationship between USA + USSR
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How was Detente a change in terms of superpower relations? (2)
* Prior to detente, superpower relations had been volatile => talks had been held + progress made at times, but next moment of high tension was never far away.
* Detente represented a period of increasingly better superpower relations => less chance of conflict.
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How was Detente a change in terms of the arms/space races? (3)
* SALT I and other agreements seemed to bring arms race to an end - restrictions but not definite.
* Safer world => willing to be checked that both sides stuck to the agreements.
* Brought space race to an official end - joint space mission - after man on moon.
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How was Detente a change in terms of diplomacy?
Improved diplomatic relations - USA + China.
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Did SALT I end the cold war?
No, brought willingness to reduce tension.
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How was Detente not a change in the cold war? (5)
* Despite better relations USA + USSR = far from allies
* End of US involvement in Vietnam, but other areas continued to cause tensions
* Still ideological differences => hard to agree
* Still tension over other countries
* Cold war still on
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How did Detente transform the cold war? (4)
* Transforms superpower relations => increased communication + co-operation - produced a peaceful co-existence (not same as Khrushchev's policy).
* Decreased risk of war/use of nuclear weapons.
* Improved diplomatic relations (USA + China).
* Created opportunities for collaboration in areas such as; trade, science + technology.
