"Prague Spring" in 1968 plays an important role in the history of world socialism.Determination of the historical process within a short period of time has changed considerably - the then "creeping counter-revolution" now has the name of a peaceful democratic revolution.
most interesting thing is that the reform process, which was proposed by members of the Communist Party of Czechoslovakia, was harshly suppressed by military force communists ruling in neighboring countries, allies of Czechoslovakia by Warsaw Pact.It seemed that the "Prague Spring" and ultimately destroyed forgotten, but her ideas became the basis of mass movements in the countries of the socialist bloc, followed in the 80s and led to the peaceful change of power and social system.
First we need to understand what is the meaning of the term "Prague Spring"?Firstly, it is safe to say that this was not a sinister plan or counterrevolution right-wing forces in order to change the political system in Czechoslovakia.Secondly, the idea of trying to NATO member countries to separate Czechoslovakia from the socialist camp should not be taken seriously.Because in 1968 in this country the main purpose of the society was freedom of speech and press, the democratization of the regime, economic reforms and the reluctance of communist construction on the Stalinist system.
Do not forget that it was the time of the 60's - a time of great hope in the socialist countries, which are actively discussed the idea of improving the existing economic policy.I was no exception, and Czechoslovakia, in which, among the creative intelligentsia and student organizations were fierce debates and discussions about the further socio-economic development of the country.Czechoslovakia at the time far behind their Western European neighbors, and in every possible way tried to close the gap.To this end, various reforms have been proposed, such as shopping, which was to create the conditions for future changes in the political structure.However, as it usually happens, the impetus for change has served as a change of personnel at the pinnacle of power.Due to the existing plot, from the post of first secretary of the Central Committee was forced A. Novotny, whose place then took Alexander Dubcek, who was well known to members of the Communist Party.From that moment and began his report "Prague Spring."
Then in Czechoslovakia was relatively quiet, there were discussions about the future of revival and socialist state.Also eased censorship, organize new associations such as clubs of non-party - "CAS", and many residents of the republic there was a sense of independence and freedom.With regard to the state government, the Communist Party of Czechoslovakia in full swing struggle for the redistribution of portfolios that distract leadership from the planned policy reforms.And so the power of a gradual transition to a non-traditional political forces of Czechoslovakia.
In March 1968, the CPSU Central Committee sent to party activists document on the situation in Czechoslovakia.It expressed concern regarding the existence of the society anti-socialist sentiments and spoke of the need to repel the revolutionary action.But Dubcek always said that the situation in the country is under the vigilant control of the party.
However, at this time in Czechoslovakia increasingly demands were heard on the establishment of the official opposition.Inside the country, actively discussed the professional suitability of most of the party leadership.Hosts various performances and meetings, the society was ready for the counter-revolution, and Alexander Dubcek went inactive.
And all this does not remain without attention of the Warsaw Pact, whose soldiers and tanks entered Czechoslovakia night, August 20, 1968.At the same time, the Soviet military aircraft landed at the Prague airport, and the members of the KGB under arrest and the first secretary of the Presidium of the Central Committee members.And she Prague, figuratively speaking, closed its doors.The city was declared a general strike, the streets were deserted.Residents of the Czechoslovak Republic did not respond to violence with violence.and the occupants were not made a single shot.Altogether during the process called "Prague Spring" in Czechoslovakia more than 70 people were killed, 250 were injured and thousands of people were thrown into exile.So there was suppression of the "Prague Spring" - the second attempt at restructuring the socialist camp after Hungary in 1956.
In fact, the organizers of the Czechoslovak reforms were opposed to their country became capitalist, they were all convinced communist.They only wanted to build socialism "with a human face."
