Cold War in the 50s The more things change …

Stalin is Dead March 6, 1953 – Stalin died

Nikita Khrushchev Three years of rule by committee (politburo) Nikita Khrushchev became premier Not nearly as authoritarian as Stalin Mildly freer society, though still secret police (KGB) and persecution of political dissidents Lifted some agricultural restrictions

Secret Speech 1956 – Speech in Soviet Union at 20 th Congress of the Communist Party, Khrushchev gave a speech condemning Stalin’s brutal tactics and policies Speech was later released outside USSR … ramifications … "Everyone can err, but Stalin considered that he never erred, that he was always right. He never acknowledged to anyone that he made any mistake, large or small, despite the fact that he made not a few mistakes in the matter of theory and in his practical activity."

Crisis Year 1956 Suez Crisis –Egypt’s President, Gamal Nasser nationalized Suez Canal (Egyptian control) –UK, France intervened in Israeli / Egyptian conflict … landed troops to regain canal –USA did NOT support them, they had to withdraw

The Suez Crisis:

Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

The Hungarian Uprising: 1956 Imre Nagy, Hungarian Prime Minister }Promised free elections. }This could lead to the end of communist rule in Hungary.

Polish Uprising –Polish communist party turned to Wladyslaw Gomulka –Very independent –Genuinely communist, but forced USSR to allow more autonomy Hungary’s Revolt –Student led revolt –Fighting in the streets against government forces

Soviet troops invaded and crushed the rebellion Students broadcasted SOS to USA for help … USA did not respond 10,000 killed American promises of aid to Iron Curtain nations rang hollow after this

Sputnik I (1957) The Russians have beaten America in space—they have the technological edge!

Nixon-Khrushchev “Kitchen Debate” (1959) Cold War ---> Tensions <--- Technology & Affluence