The USSR after Stalin

About this course

The course examines the Soviet Union from the post-war political and social situation through Stalin’s death, the succession struggle and the reform efforts of Khrushchev. It considers the scope and limits of de-Stalinisation before tracing Khrushchev’s downfall and Brezhnev’s emergence. Teaching combines lectures with discussion of readings and set questions. After the opening session, classes use a seminar format to explore the political and social changes of the 1950s and early 1960s, including whether the USSR could be considered Stalinist in 1964.

What you'll learn

• Evaluate whether the Soviet Union remained Stalinist in 1964.
• Assess the significance of the 1953 leadership struggle and its consequences.
• Identify major trends in Soviet politics and society during the 1950s and early 1960s.

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended as an introduction to the subject, while requiring substantial reading and considered preparation for seminar discussion. Previous familiarity with earlier or later Soviet history may be useful, but the course also provides background for learners without it.

• Requires time for reading between classes.
• Involves preparing responses to set questions for seminar discussion.
• The course is not recommended for learners who have already taken Communism in the USSR with the provider.

Before you go

• Reading packs, usually around 60 to 70 pages, and class questions are sent electronically to the registered email address rather than provided in print.
• Suggestions are available on which reading materials to prioritise if time is limited.