Khrushchev's fall from power Flashcards
What were the main charges against Khrushchev that led to his fall from power?
His style of rule
mistakes in foreign policy and agriculture
discontent with decentralisation
Why was Khrushchev’s style of rule disliked?
one-man style of ruling + failed to take advice
creating his own Cult of Personality
Nepotism → advancing his son-in-law
embarrassing and flamboyant behaviour
What mistakes did Khrushchev make in foreign policy?
there was widespread disapproval of his handling of the Cuban missile crisis
he was personally blamed for the USSR’s poor relations with communist China
Why was Khrushchev criticised for agriculture?
in 1963, the Failure of the Virgin land scheme meant the grain harvest was 107 compared to the 170 million Khrushchev promised
this led to a shortfall of food supplies
Khrushchev had to import grain from America
this was a humiliation especially because Khrushchev claimed he was an agricultural expert
when summoned in October 1964, the Presidium he was accused of gross mistakes in agriculture
Why was their discontent with decentralised?
granting autonomy to local party leaders upset central party members who lost power and Control
in 1962 - he divided the party between parallel hierarchies responsible for agriculture and Industry which further reduced their power
a limit was put on how long party officials could be serve for
this led to ⅓ turnover of party members
What happened in October 1964?
Khrushchev was called to the Presidium and forced to resign
a public announcement was made saying he retired due to advanced age and ill health to appease the international community
