Khrushchev - Depth Study

What was the key difference between Nonconformist art and Soviet realism?

Nonconformist art was created and sold privately and secretly, while Soviet realism was state-sanctioned.

Who were notable figures in the Nonconformist art movement during Khrushchev's time?

Vassiliev and Kabakov.

What major event did Khrushchev argue with artists regarding the function of art?

The Manezh Art Exhibition in 1962.

What can be said about Rudolf Nureyev's career during Khrushchev's leadership?

He was spied on by the KGB for his non-conformist style and defected from Russia in 1961.

How did Khrushchev's approach to punishing political opposition differ from Stalin's?

Khrushchev dealt with opposition more leniently than Stalin, with fewer imprisonments and many releases.

What were some reactions against Khrushchev's leniency towards political opponents?

It led to more people speaking out against him and violent demonstrations, such as those in Georgia in 1956.

What was Khrushchev's policy regarding the Cold War?

He claimed to follow a policy of 'peaceful coexistence' with the West.

What was one success of Khrushchev's foreign policy?

The Austrian State Treaty of 1955, which supported Austria's independence.

What was a criticism of Khrushchev's action during the Cuban Missile Crisis?

He was criticized for nearly starting a nuclear war.

What was a key reason for Khrushchev's downfall?

His weakening of central party power and the creation of many economic councils reduced support among key party members.

What event marked the beginning of Khrushchev's downfall?

He was removed in a coup shortly after being awarded the 'Hero of the Soviet Union' in April 1964.

What decision did Khrushchev make while he was faced with criticism from the Presidium?

He agreed to sign a letter of resignation.

How did Khrushchev's style of governance contribute to his criticism?

He created a 'one man rule' and was seen as eccentric.

What major economic failure occurred under Khrushchev's leadership?

The failure of the Virgin Land Scheme.

What was the public rationale given for Khrushchev's resignation?

Illness and age, as reported by Pravda and the radio.

Who succeeded Khrushchev after his resignation?

Brezhnev.

How did Khrushchev seize power after Stalin's death?

Khrushchev seized power by promoting himself as a leader within the collective leadership after the decline of Malenkov and Beria, and by defeating the Anti-Party group.

What was the Virgin Lands Scheme?

Launched in 1954 by Khrushchev, it aimed to increase agricultural production by cultivating uncultivated lands in West Siberia and North Kazakhstan.

What were the main objectives of the 1959 Seven Year Plan?

The plan aimed at further economic development despite some decentralization, it continued to enforce a considerable amount of central planning from Moscow.

What impact did decentralization have on the economy?

Decentralization led to disorganization and complexity in the economic system, making management difficult and reducing efficiency.

What cultural changes occurred during Khrushchev's era?

Cultural changes included greater acceptance of foreign literature and arts, but censorship remained, and those criticizing the Communist system faced suppression.

What were some outcomes of Khrushchev's agricultural policies?

Khrushchev's policies initially increased production; for instance, cereal output grew from 82 million tons in 1952 to 132 million tons in 1961-64.

How did Khrushchev's economic plans address industrial needs?

Khrushchev's plans focused on rebuilding heavy industry post-World War II and later shifted towards consumer goods to improve living standards.

What were the conditions for society under Khrushchev compared to Stalin's era?

Conditions improved slightly under Khrushchev with better access to consumer goods and housing, but significant inequalities and shortages remained.

What opposition did Khrushchev face and how significant was it?

Khrushchev faced significant opposition from cultural dissidents who criticized him through art and literature, leading to arrests and repression.

What was the significance of the Secret Speech?

Khrushchev's Secret Speech criticized Stalin's purges and policies but did not denounce economic controls, highlighting a shift in the party's stance.