The Prague Spring: A Unique Challenge to Soviet Control
- Leadership Change: Alexander Dubček replaced Antonín Novotný as leader in January 1968.
- Reform Agenda: Dubček introduced "socialism with a human face," aiming to:
- Allow freedom of speech, press, and movement.
- Recognize the state of Israel.
- Grant economic autonomy based on consumer demand.
- Increase rights for the Slovak minority.
The Action Programme of April 1968 outlined these reforms, emphasizing a distinct Czechoslovak path to socialism.
Soviet Response: From Observation to Intervention
- Initial Caution: The Soviet Union watched Czechoslovakia closely, hoping reforms would remain contained.
- Escalation of Reforms: The end of press censorship and talks with West Germany alarmed the Soviets.
- Military Exercises: Warsaw Pact troops conducted exercises near the Czechoslovak border in June 1968.
The Warsaw Letter acknowledged Czechoslovakia's right to self-determination but warned that threats to socialism in one country endangered the entire socialist movement.
The Invasion: A Multinational Effort
- Decision to Invade: Brezhnev, influenced by fears of political instability, ordered the invasion with support from Warsaw Pact allies.
- Execution: On August 20, 1968, tanks entered Czechoslovakia, quickly seizing control.
- Nonviolent Resistance: Dubček ordered the Czechoslovak army not to engage, while civilians protested peacefully.
The invasion was justified as a response to a "request for assistance"from Czechoslovak communists, a claim later discredited.
