Democratization in Central and Eastern Europe

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the democratization processes in Central and Eastern Europe, focusing on events in Germany and Poland.

Democratization

The process through which a political regime becomes more democratic, often involving the transition from authoritarian rule to democratic governance.

Bottom-up democratization

A form of democratization that arises from popular demands and movements within society rather than being imposed from above.

Top-down democratization

A process in which political leaders or elites initiate reforms to create a more democratic political system.

Stasi

The official state security service of East Germany, known for its extensive surveillance and repression of dissent.

Gorbachev's reforms

Policies implemented by Mikhail Gorbachev aimed at reforming the Soviet Union, including glasnost (openness) and perestroika (restructuring), which inadvertently facilitated the end of communist rule in Eastern Europe.

Solidarity

A social movement and independent labor union in Poland that played a central role in opposing communist rule and promoting democratic reforms.

Preference falsification

The phenomenon where individuals misrepresent their true preferences in public settings due to fear of social consequences or repression.

The Berlin Wall

A physical barrier that divided East and West Berlin from 1961 until its fall in 1989, symbolizing the division of East and West Germany.

Martial law

A temporary rule by military authorities, often imposed during times of civil unrest or instability, limiting civil liberties.

Percentage Agreement

A secret agreement between Churchill and Stalin during World War II to divide Eastern Europe into spheres of influence.