The Brezhnev era, 1972–1985 (A-level only) study guide

Study Guide for The Brezhnev Era

Key Topics to Review

1. Détente (1972-1979)

• Understand the significance of the SALT talks and the Helsinki Accords.
• Analyze the impact of Ostpolitik on East-West relations.

1. The Second Cold War (1979-1985)

• Examine the causes and consequences of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.
• Discuss the roles of Reagan, Thatcher, and Pope John Paul II in shaping the Cold War dynamics.

1. Domestic Policies and Social Issues

• Evaluate Brezhnev's economic policies and their effectiveness.
• Investigate the repression of dissent, focusing on the Solidarity movement in Poland.

1. Global Developments

• Assess the implications of Soviet interventions in Africa and Latin America.
• Explore the responses of the United States to these interventions.

Study Tips

• Create timelines to visualize key events and their interconnections.
• Engage in discussions with peers to deepen understanding of complex themes.
• Practice past exam questions to familiarize yourself with the format and expectations.