Week 9- Hungary

Question 1

How does Hungary act under the new,less severe rule of Khrushchev?

Answer 1

In October 1956, the citizens of Hungary revolt against the Soviet imposed policies and communist government established after WW2.

• want independence like Austria
• gather outside Parliament building to demand removal of Communists
• destroy bronze statue of Stalin

Question 2

Why does Khrushchev react savagely to the Hungarian uprising?

Answer 2

He has already been ridiculed by some in the Soviet Government for being too soft.

Question 3

What happens following the revolt of the citizens of Hungary?

Answer 3

The following day Soviet Tanks entered the Hungarian capital at Budapest.

Question 4

How does the Hungarian uprising reveal the limitations of America’s foreign policy?

Answer 4

• Hungary is included in USSR’s buffer zone countries and part of the Warsaw Pact. The U.S. knew the Soviets would not let it fall out of their control. If the U.S. became involved, it risked starting WW3 or MAD.
• the limitations of America’s foreign policy became apparent: the USA would act to prevent communism from spreading- but would not intervene in countries that were already communist.

Question 5

Both the US and USSR created “nuclear triad” forces. What weapons were in these?

Answer 5

• Ground (IBCM)
• Submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM)
• air (bombers)

Question 6

Initially, What impression is given of Khrushchev’s approach as the New leader of the Soviet Union?

Answer 6

Khrushchev is establishing himself as the new leader of the Soviet Union. He is more moderate than Stalin and

• allows Austria independence
• relaxes some strict communist rules in Poland
• reduces Red Army troops stationed in Poland.