The Prague Spring

Question 1

Who first introduced economic reforms in Czechoslavakia?

Answer 1

Ota Sik - an economist

Question 2

What reforms were introduced by Alexander Dubcek?

Answer 2

Socialism with a human face
- Freedom of speech - allowed public meetings, allowed media freedom
- Freedom of travel
- Removed state control on industry
- Reduced control of the secret police

Just like Ota Sik had recommended

Question 3

What was the turning point for the USSR?

Answer 3

It was when Dubcek announced the new, Social Democratic Party , who would be rivals to the Communist party.

(- Dubcek received support from Yugoslavia & Romania)
(- There were plans to open borders with the West –> The Soviets did not want a repeat of the Berlin Wall)

Question 4

Who did Czechoslavakia receive support from?

Answer 4

Romania 🇷🇴 & Yugoslavia

Question 5

When did the Warsaw Pact military use the Czech border for Soviet military exercises?

Answer 5

June 1968

Question 6

When and What was the Warsaw Letter about?

Answer 6

Aug 1968 - It was about

Question 7

When did the Soviets enter Prague?

Answer 7

20th August 1968

Question 8

What was the response from Communist countries?

Answer 8

• Saw the invasion as a betrayal of communism values
• It damaged relations with China
• There were protest in Yugoslavia.
• Red Army in Moscow felt deceived as they thought the Czechs wanted their presence –> This was new

Many people had now lost faith in Communism

Question 9

What was the response of the Prague invasion from the West?

Answer 9

• USA - were quick to condemn the USSR
• It was a further concern of human rights due to brutality to the USA
• There were attempts for the UN to pass a resolution - but this was vetoed