Prague Spring 1968 Flashcards
What did economist Ota Sik claim in 1963?
In 1963, Czechoslovakia abandoned its Five Year Plan, recording negative growth. Ota Sik, an economist, claimed that far-reaching reform was needed, with the Planning Commission abandoning targets for the whole economy so companies could take the initiative. In 1965 middle ranking officials diluted the policies.
Who was Novotny replaced with, and what criticisms did he receive?
Leonid Brezhnev replaced Antonin Novotny, who had been ruling since 1953, and on the Prague Coup’s 20th anniversary, Alexander Dubcek called for reform, to make a new start to socialism. In January 1968 the Soviet ambassador in Prague stated his leadership was weak. Orthodox party officials in the Interior and armed forces began to be replaced by reformists.
What tension occurred in Poland?
Gomulka repressed student protests in Poland, expelling students in Philosophy, Psychology, Sociology, and Economics. 13,000 fled the country and senior officials were sacked for Jewish origin or pro-Zionist views.
What changes were made to trade unions and social clubs, alongside demands?
April 10 1968, Communist Party would have to compete for influence under Dubcek’s leadership. Trade unions and groups such as Club K-231, made up of former political prisoners, gained prominence. Dubcek insisted groups should be formed under the National Front, the party’s body, and insisted foreign policy would commit to the USSR. The USSR were alarmed by demands for less censorship, consumer good increases, and foreign trade.
What was discussed at the Warsaw emergency meeting?
An emergency meeting was arranged in Warsaw, unattended by Ceausescu, who had redefined socialism in Romania in the 50s, and by Dubcek. Todor Zhivkov, in Bulgaria, argued that counter-revolutionary centres controlled by America were seeking to tear Czechoslovakia from the Soviet bloc. In their Warsaw Letter, Prague was informed attempts to leave the socialist commonwealth would meet rebuff.
What intervention was made in Czechoslovakia? (Warsaw Pact countries not involved at Hungary)
80,000 soldiers from Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, and East Germany accompanied Soviet force. Prague was invaded in August 1968. Brezhnev’s Doctrine showed intervention despite Czechoslovakia’s assurances it wouldn’t leave the Warsaw Pact.
What were effects of the Prague Spring?
Effects:
- US forces drawn 200km back, but assurances that the West would not be violated.
- Soviet-Czechoslovak document signed on 4 August 1968 promising inviolability of borders broken. USSR not trustworthy.
- Rise of Eastern European activists striking back against totalitarian regime.
