Soviet Expansion Flashcards
(7 cards)
What does the term “Soviet expansion” refer to?
The process by which the USSR took control of Eastern European countries between 1945 and 1949, establishing communist governments loyal to Moscow.
Q: Why did the Soviet Union want to expand into Eastern Europe after WWII?
To create a buffer zone of friendly communist states for protection and to spread communism.
Which countries came under Soviet control by 1949?
Poland, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, East Germany, Albania, and (briefly) Yugoslavia.
How did the USSR take control of Eastern European countries?
By using the Red Army, forming coalition governments, removing opposition, and establishing one-party communist rule.
What was the reaction of the USA to Soviet expansion?
The USA saw it as a threat and responded with the Truman Doctrine and Marshall Plan to contain communism.
How did Soviet expansion contribute to the start of the Cold War?
It increased mistrust between the USA and USSR and showed the USSR was not willing to allow free elections in Eastern Europe.
What agreement did Stalin break by imposing communism on Eastern Europe?
The Yalta Conference agreement (1945), which promised free elections in liberated countries.
