Hungarian Uprising of 1956

Flashcards covering key concepts regarding the Hungarian Uprising of 1956, including reasons for opposition to Soviet control, the role of the AVH, economic issues, and the events surrounding the uprising.

Why did many Hungarians oppose Soviet control in 1956?

Due to repression, lack of political freedom, economic hardship, religious persecution, and hope for Western support.

What role did the AVH (secret police) play in Hungary?

They restricted freedoms, instilled fear, executed around 2,000 people, and imprisoned about 100,000.

How was the Hungarian Communist Party viewed?

It had no democratic legitimacy, winning only 17% of the vote post-WWII.

What were Hungary’s economic problems?

The economy was weak; the USSR took food and goods needed for rebuilding.

How did religion factor into opposition?

Religion was banned, and religious leaders like Cardinal Mindszenty were imprisoned.

Why did Hungarians think they might succeed?

They hoped for U.S./UN support and believed Khrushchev was less ruthless than Stalin.

What sparked Soviet military action?

A student protest where police fired on demonstrators and a Stalin statue was pulled down.

Who was Imre Nagy and what did he do?

New PM who promised reforms and asked the USSR to withdraw troops.

What reforms did Nagy introduce?

Democracy, freedom of speech/religion, political prisoner release, and leaving the Warsaw Pact.

How did Khrushchev initially respond?

He agreed to withdraw troops temporarily.

What was the final Soviet action?

They retook control, crushed the uprising, and executed Nagy.