Cominform, and Comecon, 1947-49

Question 1

When was Cominform established, and what was its purpose?

Answer 1

• Cominform was established on 22nd September 1947.
• It was an association of Communist Parties from all over Europe, giving Stalin a way of directing and controlling the governments of the Satellite States, ending opposition to Moscow, and ensuring the loyalty of Eastern European governments.

Question 2

What decision did Cominform make regarding the Marshall Plan?

Answer 2

At its first meeting, Cominform rejected the Marshall Plan.

Question 3

How did Cominform use propaganda?

Answer 3

Cominform spread propaganda by accusing America of being no different from Nazi Germany.

Question 4

When was Comecon established, and how long after the Marshall Plan was it announced?

Answer 4

Comecon was established on 25th January 1949, two years after the Marshall Plan was announced.

Question 5

Which countries were members of Comecon?

Answer 5

The members of Comecon were the Soviet Union, Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Poland, and Romania. East Germany and Albania joined the following year.

Question 6

What was the primary goal of Comecon?

Answer 6

Comecon aimed to support economic development in its member states and discourage trade with the USA and Western Europe.

Question 7

Why did Stalin create Comecon?

Answer 7

• Stalin wanted communist states to maintain their independence from capitalist governments and prevent the USA from becoming powerful in Eastern Europe, so he would not allow the satellite states to accept Marshall aid.
• He also needed a positive alternative to American aid to keep satellite states under his control.