DEPTH STUDIES: How effectively did Khrushchev deal with challenges posed by the Cold War? Flashcards
(10 cards)
1
Q
When was Khrushchev’s secret speech?
A
- 1956.
2
Q
What did Khrushchev say in his secret speech?
A
- Stated that “there are only two ways - either peaceful co-existence or the most destructive war in history, there is no third way.”
3
Q
Why was the secret speech seen as a success?
A
- Seen by some as the leader taking initiative in an attempt to create a more peaceful and secure society.
4
Q
Why was Khrushchev’s signing of the Austrian State Treaty (May 1955) seen as positive>
A
- Indicated that Russia was willing to co-operate with the West over dealing with Austria’s claims for independence.
5
Q
How can the Hungarian uprising be view positively?
A
- The ruthless suppressing of the Hungarian uprising - 3,000 Hungarian killed - gained the support of the communist party.
6
Q
Why can the Berlin Wall be viewed as a positive political movement under Khrushchev?
A
- Construction of the Berlin Wall - seen as a bold movement to precent further embarrassment to fellow communist leaders in East Germany.
7
Q
Why can Khrushchev’s handling of the Cuban Missile Crisis be praised?
A
- Argument that Khrushchev’s diplomatic skills forced Kennedy to compromise rather than call the Russian’s leaders bluff by invading Cuba and overthrowing Castro.
- Can be seen as a success as it resulted in the “hotline” between Moscow and Washington - strengthens “peaceful coexistence”.
8
Q
Why was Khrushchev’s policy of peaceful coexistence criticised?
A
- Viewed by communists as a betrayal of ideals.
- Perceived U-turn against the spread of communism.
- Chinese communists accused the Russian leader of being too soft on imperialists - led to Khrushchev withdrawing military support for china.
9
Q
Why can the Hungarian uprising be seen as a disaster for Khrushchev?
A
- Seen as a result of de-stalinisation.
- Weakens the soviet cause in Eastern Europe and the Soviet cause more broadly.
- Ruthless suppression of Hungarian protesters - 3,000 killed - leads to a poor advertisement of communism more broadly.
10
Q
Why can the Cuban Missile Crisis be viewed negatively for Khrushchev?
A
- Khrushchev seen as someone who nearly provoked a catastrophic nuclear war.
- By agreeing to withdraw missiles from Cuba, Khrushchev was viewed by fellow Russian officials as someone who backs down.
