SOVIET POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS Flashcards
What were political, economic and social developments in the Soviet zone based on?
The Soviet-Union’s version of Marxist-Leninism.
What had happened to senior German communists at the end of April 1945?
Many of those that had fled to the Soviet Union, were transported to Berlin and other major cities in the Eastern Zone.
Who was the leader of the group of German communists sent to Berlin?
Walter Ulbricht.
What goal was Ulbricht charged with?
Achieving Stalin’s goal of establishing communist control in the East to make a future united Germany susceptible to communist control.
What was Ulbricht’s strategy to implement communist control in Berlin?
Backing non-communists as mayor in some areas of Berlin but undermine them and limit their influence.
What were Communists appointed as in the Soviet zone?
Heads of police and education throughout Berlin.
When did Western troops enter their sections of Berlin?
July 1945.
What did the Soviet Union grant permission for on the 10th June?
The formation of anti-facist political parties in the Soviet zone.
What was the intention behind the Soviets allowing political parties?
The SU would be in a better position to support and legitimatise the activities of the German Communists.
Why were non-Communist parties allowed to form in the Soviet zone?
Largely window-dressing to give the appearance of democratisation.
What were the main four parties to be licensed between 11th June and 5th July?
- KPD
- SPD
- CDU
- LDPD
When did the SED form?
April 1946.
What were Grotewhol’s hopes for the SPD through the formation of the SED?
SPD might play a leading role in the new party and German socialists would accept the merger.
What was the result of the October 1946 election?
SED poll 47.5% of vote in regional elections.
What did the SED appear to be to the Americans and British?
Little more than a tool of the SU and reinforced their fear of a Communist take over in Germany.
