Brezhnev as leader: reasons for Khrushchev's removal from power and Brezhnev's ascendancy; character, views and aims of Brezhnev and his associates in government; the nomenklatura system and corruption
In 1964, Communist Party insiders ousted Khrushchev and replaced him with Leonid Brezhnev. Brezhnev built his power on rewarding loyal officials and tolerating widespread corruption inside the Soviet system.
Real World
The nomenklatura system worked like a private members' club: loyal officials such as Konstantin Chernenko were rewarded with dachas, foreign goods, and promotion, while incompetent party men kept their posts as long as they stayed quiet — a system of institutionalised corruption that paralysed Soviet governance for two decades.
Exam Focus
When explaining Khrushchev's removal, identify at least two distinct causes — personal style and policy failures — to access higher mark bands.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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