To what extent did the Sovietization of Eastern and Central Europe contribute to the emergence of the Cold War between 1945 and 1949?

The term “Sovietization of Eastern Europe” refers to the expansion of Soviet influence over Eastern European countries by the end of 1949. Candidates are required to consider the merits, or otherwise, of the suggestion that Sovietization had an impact on the emergence of the Cold War during the given period. Other factors may be used for context and debate but the response must
deal with the named issue and make a supported judgement on the importance of that issue.

Indicative content

• It may be argued that communist governments were established in contravention of the Declaration on Liberated Europe agreed at Yalta.
• There was US criticism of the use of “salami tactics” by the Soviet Union. These were carried out by the infiltration of rival political parties, the rigging of elections and abuse of power, often through interior and defence ministries.
• The US and Britain were particularly concerned about the fate of Poland. Pledges for free elections were not upheld and the Lublin Government was firmly in place before the elections were held in 1947. There was criticism of the USSR from both the US and Britain for this apparent failure to keep a promise.
• Candidates may argue that Sovietization was a response to the Truman Doctrine and the Marshall Plan with Cominform being resurrected in 1947 and COMECON set up in 1949.
• Events in Germany may be used to support arguments that there was a fear of Sovietization spreading into the Western zones and that this had contributed to the breakdown of the Allied Control Council in 1948. Conversely, it may be argued that the Berlin Blockade, for example, was Stalin’s response to Bi- and then Tri-zonia that hardened the line between the Soviet and
  the other zones of Germany.
• Other factors to be considered and assessed may include: fundamental ideological differences, Great Power rivalry, mistrust and suspicion, the roles of Truman and Stalin whose intransigence was apparent even at Potsdam.

The above material is an indication of what candidates may elect to write about in their responses. However, it is not exhaustive and no set answer is required.

Examiners and moderators are reminded of the need to apply the markbands that provide the “best fit” to the responses given by candidates and to award credit wherever it is possible to do so.

[20 marks]