SOVIET ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTS Flashcards
What had happened to Germany’s economic infrastructure by the end of the war?
It had virtually collapsed.
What logistical economic problems faced the allies?
The scale of damage and destruction and providing food and medical aid for the population.
What was the Soviet approach to the German economy?
No intention of putting German economic interests ahead of its own national self-interest.
What was the Soviet approach to reparations?
Determined to extract an estimated 3x more than what was agreed at Yalta and Potsdam.
What happened to productive capacity in the Soviet Zone?
All that remained was seized, with entire factories and industrial plants being dismantled in reparations.
How much of East Germany’s industrial base was lost in reparations?
About one-third.
What happened to the most important sectors of the industrial and commercial economy in the Soviet zone?
Progressively nationalised.
When did the nationalisation of heavy industry begin in the Soviet zone?
September 1945.
What were created as part of nationalisation in the Soviet Zone in June 1946?
SAGs (Soviet Joint Stock Companies).
What did the Soviets set up in June 1947?
German Economic Commission.
What were collective farms?
Privately-Owned farms being merged into very large state controlled farms.
When did the collectivisation of agriculture begin in the Soviet zone?
1945.
