Discuss the reasons why Tito was able to resist Soviet control of Yugoslavia.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the reasons why Tito was able to resist Soviet control of Yugoslavia. Candidates may argue that one reason for his successful resistance to Stalin’s plans for the Yugoslav economy was his development of his own brand of communism. He denationalized industry and put workers in control, which improved the economy. Some may argue Tito’s introduction of a semi Marxist system with capitalist elements and his internal popularity as a war hero were key factors that helped him resist Soviet control. Some may argue that his foreign policy initiatives and membership of the Non-Aligned Movement were also reasons for his successful resistance. Others may argue that the Soviet Union was distracted by events in the rest of the Eastern bloc and was unable to invade Yugoslavia. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the reasons why Tito was able to resist Soviet control of Yugoslavia.