Peaceful Coexistence

What was peaceful coexistence?

In terms of the Cold War, peaceful coexistence is the policy of accepting the existence of the other superpower so that both sides could exist without having to resort to war. It meant living in peace with each other, although competition between the two superpowers could continue.

When was peaceful coexistence?

The period of peaceful coexistence occurred in the early 1950s.

Who was responsible for peaceful coexistence?

Nikita Khrushchev, the leader of the USSR between 1953 and 1964, is associated with the policy of peaceful coexistence.

Why was peaceful coexistence created?

There were 4 key reasons why Khrushchev supported the policy of peaceful coexistence:

• ❖ The USSR wanted to improve its relationship with the USA.
• ❖ Khrushchev believed the USSR was superior to the USA. Communism would win when the capitalist system collapsed, so there was little point starting a war with the USA.
• ❖ The Korean War ended in 1953 so the tension between the USSR and the USA was reducing.
• ❖ By reducing tension and accepting peaceful coexistence, it was hoped that spending on the arms race could be reduced.

What happened during peaceful coexistence?

The 2 key events of peaceful coexistence were:

• ❖ An agreement between the USA, France, Britain and the USSR. They discussed how Austria should be ruled, as it was still occupied after the Second World War.
• ❖ In the Geneva Summit of July 1955, the USSR, the USA, France and Britain discussed disarmament and Germany. Despite no formal agreements, the East-West relationship improved slightly.

Why did peaceful coexistence end?

Peaceful coexistence ended for 3 key reasons:

• ❖ In May 1955 West Germany became a member of NATO, which greatly angered the USSR. The USSR created the Warsaw Pact, which increased tension.
• ❖ The USSR and the USA still competed in space.
• ❖ Khrushchev crushed the Hungarian Uprising in 1956, for which he was condemned by the West.