History Module 11: USSR control over Eastern Europe 1948-c.1989

Question 1

What reforms did Dubček propose for Czechoslovakia in 1968?

Answer 1

In 1968, Alexander Dubček proposed reforms for Czechoslovakia that included:

1. Introduction of political liberalisation and more freedom of speech.
2. Implementation of economic reforms towards a more liberalised model.
3. Enhancement of individual rights and reduction of state surveillance.
4. Promotion of a more democratic form of socialism, dubbed “socialism with a human face.”

Question 2

Describe how the Allies reacted to the Berlin Blockade.

Answer 2

The Allies’ reaction to the Berlin Blockade included:

1. Organising the Berlin Airlift to supply West Berlin with essential goods.
2. Avoiding direct military confrontation with the Soviet Union.
3. Successfully sustaining West Berlin throughout the blockade.
4. Applying diplomatic pressure which eventually led to the lifting of the blockade.

Question 3

What was the Truman Doctrine?

Answer 3

The Truman Doctrine involved:

1. A policy aimed at containing the spread of communism.
2. Providing political, military, and economic assistance to Greece and Turkey.
3. Signalling a shift in American foreign policy towards active engagement in global affairs.
4. Establishing the framework for US involvement in preventing the spread of Soviet influence.

Question 4

Describe the events that led to the revolt in Hungary in 1956.

Answer 4

The events leading to the revolt in Hungary in 1956 included:

1. Growing discontent with Soviet control and economic hardships.
2. The influence of de-Stalinization and calls for more autonomy.
3. The appointment of reformist leader Imre Nagy, who promised liberal reforms.
4. Inspiration from Poland’s successful demands for reform in October 1956, sparking student-led protests in Hungary.

Question 5

Describe the activities of ‘Solidarity’ in Poland during the 1980s.

Answer 5

During the 1980s, the activities of ‘Solidarity’ in Poland included:

1. Formation as an independent trade union, representing a broad anti-communist social movement.
2. Organising strikes and protests demanding political and economic reforms.
3. Operating both openly and underground, especially after martial law was declared in 1981.
4. Playing a key role in the eventual negotiations for Poland’s transition to democracy.

Question 6

Describe how the Soviet Union responded to the uprising in Hungary in 1956.

Answer 6

The Soviet Union responded to the uprising in Hungary in 1956 by:

1. Initially withdrawing troops, giving a false impression of concession.
2. Subsequently sending a large military force to suppress the uprising.
3. Brutally crushing the revolt, leading to significant casualties.
4. Re-establishing control over Hungary and installing a pro-Soviet government.