What was the refugee problem in Berlin?
Millions of East Germans fled to West Berlin to escape poverty and lack of freedom, weakening communism.
Why was the refugee problem a problem for the USSR?
It embarrassed the USSR and showed people preferred capitalism.
What was Khrushchev’s Berlin Ultimatum (1958)?
Demand that Western powers leave Berlin within 6 months.
What happened when the ultimatum failed?
Tensions increased but no war occurred.
What were the summit meetings (1959–61)?
Meetings between USA and USSR leaders to reduce tension.
Why did the summit meetings fail?
Disagreements over Berlin and lack of trust after the U-2 incident.
Who led the Cuban Revolution?
Fidel Castro.
Why did the USA refuse to recognise Castro?
He was communist and threatened US influence.
How did Cuba’s relationship with the USSR change?
Cuba became closely allied with the USSR for support.
What was the Bay of Pigs invasion?
A failed US-backed attempt to overthrow Castro using Cuban exiles.
Why did the Bay of Pigs invasion fail?
Poor planning and lack of Cuban support.
Why was the Bay of Pigs significant?
Strengthened Castro, made USA look weak, pushed Cuba closer to USSR.
What was the Prague Spring?
Reforms in Czechoslovakia to make communism more liberal.
Who led the Prague Spring?
Alexander Dubček.
What changes did Dubček introduce?
More freedom of speech, less censorship, ‘socialism with a human face’.
How did the USSR respond to the Prague Spring?
Invaded Czechoslovakia with Warsaw Pact troops.
Why was the Prague Spring important?
Showed USSR would use force to maintain control and increased Cold War tensions.