Between 1945 and 1968, to what extent was there support for Soviet control within two of the following: East Germany; Poland; Hungary; Czechoslovakia?

Candidates will consider the merits of the suggestion that there was some support for Soviet dominance between 1945 and 1968. Initial levels of support can be indicated by the electoral support for communist parties in the first elections. On the other hand, candidates may argue that elections were often, but not always, managed. When evaluating continued support for Soviet control, there may be some reference to the causes and extent of demonstrations, for example, if they were economic or political, or if the regime was closely linked to the Soviet Union. For example, Novotny in Czechoslovakia was closely linked to Moscow whereas Gomulka in Poland was, to some extent, able to pursue his own economic policies if Poland remained loyal to the Warsaw Pact. When considering the 1950s and 1960s, it may be argued that opposition to Soviet control increased; however, this may not have been accompanied by a desire to abandon socialism.