Political developments in the satellite states of central Europe: Poland and the leadership of Gierek; Czechoslovakia and the leadership of Husak; Hungary and the leadership of Kadar; the GDR and the leadership of Honecker; policy changes and the extent of reform
After 1968, four Soviet satellite states each took a different approach to communist rule. Their leaders — Gierek, Husak, Kadar and Honecker — chose varying mixes of repression, economic concession and cautious reform.
Real World
Hungary's Kadar pursued 'goulash communism' — allowing small private businesses and consumer goods — so that by the 1970s Hungarians could buy Western jeans and open market stalls, a visible contrast to the rigid austerity Honecker maintained in East Germany.
Exam Focus
Use precise comparative language ('whereas', 'in contrast') when the question asks you to assess the extent of reform across states.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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