Summary
The Prague Spring in 1968 was a period of political liberalization in Czechoslovakia, which was suppressed by a Soviet-led invasion, leading to the establishment of the Brezhnev Doctrine.
- Prague Spring — a period of reform in Czechoslovakia aiming for "socialism with a human face." Example: Dubček's reforms included freedom of speech and economic decentralization.
- Brezhnev Doctrine — Soviet policy justifying intervention in socialist countries to maintain communism. Example: Used to justify the invasion of Czechoslovakia in 1968.
- Dubček's Reforms — initiatives to introduce political freedom and economic efficiency. Example: Relaxation of censorship and reduction of secret police powers.
- Warsaw Pact Invasion — military intervention by Soviet and allied forces to suppress the Prague Spring. Example: 500,000 troops invaded Czechoslovakia in August 1968.
- Normalisation — the reversal of reforms and re-establishment of Soviet control. Example: Dubček was removed, and censorship was reinstated.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Prague Spring
- Brezhnev Doctrine
- Dubček's Reforms
- Warsaw Pact Invasion
- Normalisation
Common Confusions
- Confusing the Prague Spring with the Hungarian Uprising of 1956
- Misunderstanding the Brezhnev Doctrine as a policy of liberalization
Typical Exam Questions
- What were the main causes of the Prague Spring? Economic stagnation, public dissatisfaction, and intellectual criticism.
- How did the Soviet Union respond to the Prague Spring? By invading Czechoslovakia with Warsaw Pact troops.
- What was the Brezhnev Doctrine? A policy allowing Soviet intervention in socialist countries to maintain communism.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of Dubček's reforms and their impact
- Reasons for Soviet intervention in Czechoslovakia
- Consequences of the Prague Spring and the Brezhnev Doctrine