Compare and contrast the impact of opposition to Soviet control in two countries between 1968 and 1989.

The question requires that candidates give an account of the similarities and differences between two countries when considering the impact of opposition to Soviet control. There does not need to be an equal number of each. Candidates may refer to the role and ability of national leaders to remain in office, the consequences of the intervention of the Soviet military forces, when there were attempts to leave the Warsaw Pact (Czechoslovakia 1968). Candidates may consider the role of strong national leaders and trade union groups from industrial cities such as Solidarity in Poland. There may be some discussion of the extent of political reforms by national governments because of discontent with Soviet control. There should be a clear focus on the impact of opposition, with some discussion as to whether it led to more or less Soviet control. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates give an account of the similarities and differences between two countries when considering the impact of opposition to Soviet control between 1968 and 1989. Few responses were seen to this question. Czechoslovakia and Poland were both discussed successfully in some cases with relevant knowledge provided.