Russia: Historical Interpretations 2 Flashcards
why did the political aims of the Communist party lead to widespread cynicism?
It said it was committed to creating a genuine democracy but was corrupt.
what were Gorbachev’s aims when it came to political reform?
- end the stagnation of the Brezhnev era
- end the cynicism and apathy of the soviet people by returning the model Lenin had outlined in 1917
What were Gorbachevs early plans for reform?
Open up debate in the party (democratisation)
Allow more freedom of expression for intullectuals and the public.
Why did Gorbachev start to push for “Glasnost” from 1986 onwards?
Glasnost initially meant being open about state of economy
Because of opposition from hardline communists broadened it to meaning political reforms
Looking for support outside the party
What was the significance of the Twenty Seventh Party Congress?
First time the party had adopted new priorities since 1961.
Gorbachev committed the party to the “improvement of socialism” and “Genuine democracy”
Who was aleksandr Yakovlev and how did he contribute to glasnost?
He was given responsibility for Soviet media
Appointed radical new editors to the Moscow News and liberalised the media
He allowed the publication of previously banned books, plays and films.
How was glasnost extended in 1986 & 1988?
The media began to criticise not only Stalin but also Lenin and Marx.
1988 foreign radio and news paper was allowed.
Backed by the 19th party conference which admitted there were huge problems facing USSR.
What were the consequences of glasnost?
Gorbachev was now open to criticism as well
He got criticised by both sides for reforming to slow or too fast
Revelations to stalins terror led to some criticising communism as a whole.
Explain the divisions in the party by 1988
MODERATES - Ligachev and Ryzhov - accepted they needed to tackle corruption and economic reforms
But Gorbachev was undermining the power of the party
RADICALS - like Yeltsin and Yakovlev - believed exposing the party to criticism and debate would help
How did Chernobyl discredit Gorbachev?
Accident not reported to Central Government for two days. Authorities tried to cover it up.
Took Gorbachev 2 weeks to public announce
Became symbol of USSR. Inefficient poor management.
How did Gorbachev change the way elections were run?
The 19th Party Congress in 1988 introduced multi-candidate elections.
Why were the consequences of the 1989 election?
Nationalists used the election to campaign for independence
Yeltsin emerged from the elections as a popular figure and rival to Gorbachev
How had democratisation led to problems for Gorbachev?
thought it would strengthen radicals inside the Party
REALITY - elections weakened whole of the party
made it harder for Gorbachev push economic reforms and maintain order
Why had Gorbachevs appointment as president in march 1990 been a mixed blessing?
He created the position so he could strengthen his power.
Knew he couldn’t win so had himself appointed
Lacked legitimacy unlike rivals
How did glasnost lead to collapse?
Hoped democratisation would revitalise the party and economy
REALITY - destroyed authority of the party
-allowing anti Communist opposition to criticise the government
