The Prague Spring Flashcards
When had Czechoslovakia become a communist state?
1948
How did Czechoslovakia being part of the Warsaw pact influence their trade?
It discouraged trade with countries outside the Eastern Bloc and promoted soviet style communism.
How did soviet policies affect Czechoslovakia?
Policies such as collectivisation and centralisation slowed economic progress in Czechoslovakia.
When did students and writers protest about the lack of free speech and free movement in Czechoslovakia?
1956
Who became the leader of the communist party in January 1968 Czechoslovakia?
Alexander Dubcek
State some of Dubceks reforms in April 1968
- travel to the West was made available
- the border with West Germany was re-opened
- all industry became decentralised
- trade unions and workers were given more power
- freedoms of speech and opposition parties were allowed
Why did Dubceks reforms worry the USSR?
Because many of the policies aimed at improving Czechoslovakia by building relations with the West. The USSR didn’t want any Western involvement in the Eastern bloc.
What is ‘Prague Spring’
The four months in which Dubceks policies were tolerated by the USSR.
Why was Brezhnev worried about Dubceks reforms?
It could lead to a rejection of communism in the Eastern Bloc and in the USSR itself. If Czechoslovakia pulled away, the other states might follow.
Why did President Titos visit to Czechoslovakia in August 1968 trigger a soviet response?
Because Yugoslavia had refused to sign the Warsaw pact and had never accepted the USSRs version of communism. This trip was an ominous sign to Brezhnev that Czechoslovakia was no longer loyal to the USSR.
On 21st August 1968, how many Soviet troops invaded Czechoslovakia?
500,000
How did Czechoslovakians respond to the Soviet invasion?
With non violent protests such as anti invasion banners.
How was Dubcek replaced?
Dubcek was forcibly removed from the office in April 1969 and was replaced with Gustav Husak who was loyal to Soviet style communism.
