Eastern Europe during the Cold War, 1945-1990

About this course

The course traces the establishment, development and collapse of communist regimes in Eastern Europe from the aftermath of the Second World War to 1989. It considers relations with the USSR and the West, national attempts to pursue independent policies, political opposition and events such as the Prague Spring and Solidarity movement. Alongside political and economic change, the course explores everyday life, repression, social progress and cultural expression, including the tension between official art and dissident work. Teaching combines lectures with PowerPoint presentations and discussions in large and small groups.

What you'll learn

• Explain how communist regimes emerged in Eastern Europe after the Second World War
• Identify events that reflected growing dissatisfaction with these regimes during the 1950s
• Analyse how Eastern European countries pursued different paths while remaining dependent on the USSR
• Assess the significance of the Prague Spring of 1968
• Analyse the forms and extent of political control and repression across the Eastern bloc
• Evaluate the internal and external factors that led to the regimes’ collapse

Is this course right for you?

Listed at Improver level, the course is intended for learners with some developing background in the subject, although previous European history knowledge is useful rather than essential. Participants should have a good standard of English and be willing to engage respectfully in large- and small-group discussion and debate.

• Discussion and debate are integral to the teaching format
• Some preparation is provided for class discussions

Before you go

• Bring a pen and paper.
• Handouts will be available.
• Materials for discussion preparation will be available on the course website.
• Books may be recommended, but purchasing them is not required.