Spread Of Communism Flashcards
(13 cards)
What event in 1944-45 led to the liberation of several Eastern European countries?
German retreat
This retreat was facilitated by the Red Army.
Which countries had fascist regimes allied with Germany that were overthrown during this period?
Hungary, Romania
These countries experienced regime changes with no clear alternative government.
What was the status of countries like Poland, Czech, Yugoslavia, and Greece during the German occupation?
Ruled by German occupation forces
These countries were under direct control of the Nazis.
Where were the governments in exile located?
Britain
These governments were too far to reassert authority immediately.
What created a power vacuum in Eastern Europe after the German retreat?
The absence of a clear alternative government
This vacuum allowed the Red Army to establish control.
What did Stalin exploit to establish pro-Soviet ‘satellite states’?
Control of liberated countries
This was a strategic move to surround the USSR with friendly regimes.
Why did Stalin feel isolated after World War II?
He was the only Communist country surrounded by capitalist countries
This isolation prompted the establishment of buffer states.
What was the purpose of creating a wall of buffer states?
To protect the USSR from another invasion
Russia and the USSR had been invaded four times from the west since 1900.
What did Stalin believe he had permission to establish in liberated countries?
A sphere of influence
This belief was reinforced by wartime conferences.
What methods were used to take control of Eastern European countries?
- Co-opting existing Communist parties
- Rigging elections
- Intimidation and harassment of opposition
- Media censorship
These methods ensured Communist dominance in the region.
How were elections manipulated to benefit Communist parties?
By redrawing electoral districts and disallowing certain parties
This allowed Communist parties to gain a larger share of votes.
What actions were taken against opposition party members?
Harassment, intimidation, and arrest
These actions suppressed dissent against the Communist regime.
What role did media censorship play in Stalin’s control?
Promoted pro-Communist propaganda
Censorship eroded freedom of speech.
