Michael Bruno
- Published in print:
- 1993
- Published Online:
- September 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780198286639
- eISBN:
- 9780191603839
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0198286635.003.0007
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Macro- and Monetary Economics
This chapter considers the most recent stabilization and reform experience in six Eastern European countries, starting with the earlier Yugoslav and Polish shock programmes of 1990 and followed by ...
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This chapter considers the most recent stabilization and reform experience in six Eastern European countries, starting with the earlier Yugoslav and Polish shock programmes of 1990 and followed by Czechoslovakia, Bulgaria, and Romania in 1991. Hungary, which had a much longer and earlier reform experience, also carried out a successful and more conventional stabilization programme in 1991. The analysis of the dramatic developments in Eastern Europe focuses on the underlying similarities of the macro-economics of stabilization across countries and regions, and attempts to isolate the particular problems that are common to Eastern and Central Europe but substantially different from the earlier experience elsewhere.Less
This chapter considers the most recent stabilization and reform experience in six Eastern European countries, starting with the earlier Yugoslav and Polish shock programmes of 1990 and followed by Czechoslovakia, Bulgaria, and Romania in 1991. Hungary, which had a much longer and earlier reform experience, also carried out a successful and more conventional stabilization programme in 1991. The analysis of the dramatic developments in Eastern Europe focuses on the underlying similarities of the macro-economics of stabilization across countries and regions, and attempts to isolate the particular problems that are common to Eastern and Central Europe but substantially different from the earlier experience elsewhere.
Dawn Brancati
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- January 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199549009
- eISBN:
- 9780191720307
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199549009.003.0001
- Subject:
- Political Science, Comparative Politics, International Relations and Politics
Why does decentralization reduce ethnic conflict and secessionism more in some countries than in others? This question constitutes the central focus of this book. After presenting the puzzle, the ...
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Why does decentralization reduce ethnic conflict and secessionism more in some countries than in others? This question constitutes the central focus of this book. After presenting the puzzle, the book defines political decentralization and lays out the debate between scholars, who argue that decentralization intensifies intrastate conflict, and policy‐makers, who argue that decentralization reduces it. The chapter previews the book's argument, which is that the effect of decentralization hinges on the electoral strength of regional parties. Subsequently, the book describes its methodological approach, consisting of three carefully selected cases studies — Czechoslovakia (1989–93), Spain (1976–present), and India (1947–present) — and a statistical analysis examining the effect on decentralization and regional parties on intrastate conflict, and decentralization, in turn, on regional parties.Less
Why does decentralization reduce ethnic conflict and secessionism more in some countries than in others? This question constitutes the central focus of this book. After presenting the puzzle, the book defines political decentralization and lays out the debate between scholars, who argue that decentralization intensifies intrastate conflict, and policy‐makers, who argue that decentralization reduces it. The chapter previews the book's argument, which is that the effect of decentralization hinges on the electoral strength of regional parties. Subsequently, the book describes its methodological approach, consisting of three carefully selected cases studies — Czechoslovakia (1989–93), Spain (1976–present), and India (1947–present) — and a statistical analysis examining the effect on decentralization and regional parties on intrastate conflict, and decentralization, in turn, on regional parties.
Dawn Brancati
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- January 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199549009
- eISBN:
- 9780191720307
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199549009.003.0003
- Subject:
- Political Science, Comparative Politics, International Relations and Politics
This chapter presents the case study of Czechoslovakia (1989–1993). Czechoslovakia's dissolution in 1993 was remarkable because only a few Czechs and Slovaks, and none of the country's major ...
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This chapter presents the case study of Czechoslovakia (1989–1993). Czechoslovakia's dissolution in 1993 was remarkable because only a few Czechs and Slovaks, and none of the country's major political parties, supported dissolution. The chapter attributes the failure to agree on a new constitution, which led to the country's breakup, to regional parties whose positions on the constitution were seen as unreasonable by parties in the opposing region. The chapter further argues that the dissolution and the strength of regional parties in the country at the time was not a result of the underlying social differences in the country, but the way in which decentralization was structured. In demonstrating the argument, the chapter shows that although differences between Czechs and Slovaks were greater in the interwar period than in the postcommunist period, regional parties had a weaker presence under a centralized system of government. The chapter strengthens the case by showing that although in the postcommunist period differences between the two Czech Lands of Bohemia and Moravia were as great as those between Czechs and Slovaks, parties competed in both Czech Lands and incorporated Moravian interests for autonomy into their agendas, thereby, averting the same result as in Slovakia.Less
This chapter presents the case study of Czechoslovakia (1989–1993). Czechoslovakia's dissolution in 1993 was remarkable because only a few Czechs and Slovaks, and none of the country's major political parties, supported dissolution. The chapter attributes the failure to agree on a new constitution, which led to the country's breakup, to regional parties whose positions on the constitution were seen as unreasonable by parties in the opposing region. The chapter further argues that the dissolution and the strength of regional parties in the country at the time was not a result of the underlying social differences in the country, but the way in which decentralization was structured. In demonstrating the argument, the chapter shows that although differences between Czechs and Slovaks were greater in the interwar period than in the postcommunist period, regional parties had a weaker presence under a centralized system of government. The chapter strengthens the case by showing that although in the postcommunist period differences between the two Czech Lands of Bohemia and Moravia were as great as those between Czechs and Slovaks, parties competed in both Czech Lands and incorporated Moravian interests for autonomy into their agendas, thereby, averting the same result as in Slovakia.
Dawn Brancati
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- January 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199549009
- eISBN:
- 9780191720307
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199549009.003.0008
- Subject:
- Political Science, Comparative Politics, International Relations and Politics
This chapter brings together the findings of the three case studies and the statistical analysis, and offers a forward‐looking discussion of how to design political institutions in order to ...
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This chapter brings together the findings of the three case studies and the statistical analysis, and offers a forward‐looking discussion of how to design political institutions in order to effectively manage intrastate conflict. It also discusses the political and logistical issues involved in implementing such a system, and discusses avenues for future research.Less
This chapter brings together the findings of the three case studies and the statistical analysis, and offers a forward‐looking discussion of how to design political institutions in order to effectively manage intrastate conflict. It also discusses the political and logistical issues involved in implementing such a system, and discusses avenues for future research.
Carmen González‐Enríquez
- Published in print:
- 2001
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780199240906
- eISBN:
- 9780191598869
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199240906.003.0008
- Subject:
- Political Science, Democratization
An exploration is made of the nature and scope of de-communization and political justice in Czechoslovakia (the Czech Republic, Slovakia), Albania, Bulgaria, Romania, Poland and Hungary, to each of ...
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An exploration is made of the nature and scope of de-communization and political justice in Czechoslovakia (the Czech Republic, Slovakia), Albania, Bulgaria, Romania, Poland and Hungary, to each of which a section of the chapter is devoted. The term ‘political justice’ is here meant to refer to proceedings held to try crimes (generally related to political repression) committed by outgoing regimes. With the exception of Albania, transitions to democracy in these countries were initiated in 1989, and in all cases, great political tensions arose from demands for the punishment of former communist authorities and those responsible for political repression. These demands formed part of a wider political and cultural process, namely the reworking of public discourse on the nature of the communist regime, and their nature and results varied considerably from country to country; for example, only two – the former Czechoslovakia and Albania – actually carried out purges that affected large numbers of people. This chapter attempts to answer to two main questions: (1) what explains the differences in the scope and nature of the policies adopted, and (2) what impact have they had on the process of democratization. The focus is on the rationality of the political actors or the role that anti-communist campaigns had in shaping political competition, rather than the moral and legal debates surrounding the issue.Less
An exploration is made of the nature and scope of de-communization and political justice in Czechoslovakia (the Czech Republic, Slovakia), Albania, Bulgaria, Romania, Poland and Hungary, to each of which a section of the chapter is devoted. The term ‘political justice’ is here meant to refer to proceedings held to try crimes (generally related to political repression) committed by outgoing regimes. With the exception of Albania, transitions to democracy in these countries were initiated in 1989, and in all cases, great political tensions arose from demands for the punishment of former communist authorities and those responsible for political repression. These demands formed part of a wider political and cultural process, namely the reworking of public discourse on the nature of the communist regime, and their nature and results varied considerably from country to country; for example, only two – the former Czechoslovakia and Albania – actually carried out purges that affected large numbers of people. This chapter attempts to answer to two main questions: (1) what explains the differences in the scope and nature of the policies adopted, and (2) what impact have they had on the process of democratization. The focus is on the rationality of the political actors or the role that anti-communist campaigns had in shaping political competition, rather than the moral and legal debates surrounding the issue.
Petr Kopecký
- Published in print:
- 2001
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780199244089
- eISBN:
- 9780191600364
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199244081.003.0012
- Subject:
- Political Science, Democratization
Describes the transition of the Czech Republic from the federal Constitution of Czechoslovakia to the adoption of a new Constitution of the Czech Republic. The Czech Constitution is widely accepted ...
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Describes the transition of the Czech Republic from the federal Constitution of Czechoslovakia to the adoption of a new Constitution of the Czech Republic. The Czech Constitution is widely accepted to be a solid foundation for the country's democratic political system. The chapter focuses on the impact of historical legacies and shows how the nature of bargaining becomes more predictable when the domestic political actors involved in constitution‐drafting provide a stable set of opinions and motivations from which a compromise can be forged. In order to demonstrate this point, the chapter is divided into three parts. The first examines the key elements of the constitution‐making process in the Czechoslovak Federation between 1989 and 1992. It explains the crucial constitutional decisions made during Roundtable Talks and how this particular legacy, combined with the volatile nature of transition politics, resulted in Czechoslovakia's Velvet Divorce. The second part concentrates on the process of drafting the new Constitution of the Czech Republic at the end of 1992. Finally, Kopecky discusses the effects of the Constitution on the democratic Czech Republic.Less
Describes the transition of the Czech Republic from the federal Constitution of Czechoslovakia to the adoption of a new Constitution of the Czech Republic. The Czech Constitution is widely accepted to be a solid foundation for the country's democratic political system. The chapter focuses on the impact of historical legacies and shows how the nature of bargaining becomes more predictable when the domestic political actors involved in constitution‐drafting provide a stable set of opinions and motivations from which a compromise can be forged. In order to demonstrate this point, the chapter is divided into three parts. The first examines the key elements of the constitution‐making process in the Czechoslovak Federation between 1989 and 1992. It explains the crucial constitutional decisions made during Roundtable Talks and how this particular legacy, combined with the volatile nature of transition politics, resulted in Czechoslovakia's Velvet Divorce. The second part concentrates on the process of drafting the new Constitution of the Czech Republic at the end of 1992. Finally, Kopecky discusses the effects of the Constitution on the democratic Czech Republic.
Darina Malová
- Published in print:
- 2001
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780199244089
- eISBN:
- 9780191600364
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0199244081.003.0013
- Subject:
- Political Science, Democratization
Describes the reasons behind the hastily drafted Constitution of Slovakia and explains why it proved insufficient to provide guidance to political leaders and to foster the consolidation of ...
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Describes the reasons behind the hastily drafted Constitution of Slovakia and explains why it proved insufficient to provide guidance to political leaders and to foster the consolidation of democracy. The main argument of this chapter is that the preponderance of informal rules has impeded the institutionalization of formal rules and undermined the constitutional government. The chapter focuses on the factors that have contributed to the dominance of informal rules and pushed actors to turn to unconstitutional alternatives. Slovakia's institutional developments are explored in four parts. The first part reviews institutional traditions and the constitution‐making process. The second part examines the electoral system and its impact on the party system and the composition of political power. The third part examines the substance of the Constitution, particularly, the unclear articles regarding the separation of powers, which have led to institutional conflicts. The last section analyses the durability of the constitution and attempts made by political actors to balance power through institutional engineering.Less
Describes the reasons behind the hastily drafted Constitution of Slovakia and explains why it proved insufficient to provide guidance to political leaders and to foster the consolidation of democracy. The main argument of this chapter is that the preponderance of informal rules has impeded the institutionalization of formal rules and undermined the constitutional government. The chapter focuses on the factors that have contributed to the dominance of informal rules and pushed actors to turn to unconstitutional alternatives. Slovakia's institutional developments are explored in four parts. The first part reviews institutional traditions and the constitution‐making process. The second part examines the electoral system and its impact on the party system and the composition of political power. The third part examines the substance of the Constitution, particularly, the unclear articles regarding the separation of powers, which have led to institutional conflicts. The last section analyses the durability of the constitution and attempts made by political actors to balance power through institutional engineering.
Alexandra Barahona de Brito
- Published in print:
- 1997
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780198280385
- eISBN:
- 9780191598852
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0198280386.003.0002
- Subject:
- Political Science, Democratization
This is the first of two ‘stage-setting’ chapters in Part I of the book (Problems of Transitional Truth and Justice in Comparative Perspective, and Human Rights’ Violations under Military rule in ...
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This is the first of two ‘stage-setting’ chapters in Part I of the book (Problems of Transitional Truth and Justice in Comparative Perspective, and Human Rights’ Violations under Military rule in Uruguay and Chile). It places the Uruguayan and Chilean cases in a wider context by examining various experiences of truth and justice for past abuses in Latin America and elsewhere. After an introduction, the chapter has two main sections. The first, Truth and Justice in Transitional Periods: An Overview, looks at the cases of France, Germany and Japan at the end of World War II, the collapse of the Salazarismo in Portugal in 1974, the collapse of the Somocismo in Nicaragua in 1979, the collapses of the communist regimes of Eastern Europe (Czechoslovakia, Bulgaria, Poland, Romania), and the cases of the former Yugoslavia, Bolivia, Spain, the Philippines, Namibia, Uganda, Ethiopia, Sri Lanka, Rwanda, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Argentina, Greece, Paraguay, South Africa. The second section of the chapter, Semi-Restricted, Peaceful Transitions to Democratic Rule: The Cases of Uruguay and Chile, introduces democratization in Uruguay and Chile.Less
This is the first of two ‘stage-setting’ chapters in Part I of the book (Problems of Transitional Truth and Justice in Comparative Perspective, and Human Rights’ Violations under Military rule in Uruguay and Chile). It places the Uruguayan and Chilean cases in a wider context by examining various experiences of truth and justice for past abuses in Latin America and elsewhere. After an introduction, the chapter has two main sections. The first, Truth and Justice in Transitional Periods: An Overview, looks at the cases of France, Germany and Japan at the end of World War II, the collapse of the Salazarismo in Portugal in 1974, the collapse of the Somocismo in Nicaragua in 1979, the collapses of the communist regimes of Eastern Europe (Czechoslovakia, Bulgaria, Poland, Romania), and the cases of the former Yugoslavia, Bolivia, Spain, the Philippines, Namibia, Uganda, Ethiopia, Sri Lanka, Rwanda, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Argentina, Greece, Paraguay, South Africa. The second section of the chapter, Semi-Restricted, Peaceful Transitions to Democratic Rule: The Cases of Uruguay and Chile, introduces democratization in Uruguay and Chile.
Antonín Kostlán and Soňa Štrbáňová
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- January 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780197264812
- eISBN:
- 9780191754029
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- British Academy
- DOI:
- 10.5871/bacad/9780197264812.003.0016
- Subject:
- Sociology, Migration Studies (including Refugee Studies)
The mobility of scholars is one of the significant social phenomena affecting scientific development. The mass exodus of intellectual elites from countries dominated by totalitarian regimes, however, ...
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The mobility of scholars is one of the significant social phenomena affecting scientific development. The mass exodus of intellectual elites from countries dominated by totalitarian regimes, however, represents a specific type of unwanted mobility or ‘forced migration’, which generally leads to devastating cultural and social damage over several generations. The historical experience of Czechoslovakia's waves of exile between 1918 and 1989 provides a suitable case for research into scientific exile in its varied forms. This chapter focuses on the escape of scholars from Czechoslovakia in the years between 1948 and 1989, when the country was part of the Soviet power bloc.Less
The mobility of scholars is one of the significant social phenomena affecting scientific development. The mass exodus of intellectual elites from countries dominated by totalitarian regimes, however, represents a specific type of unwanted mobility or ‘forced migration’, which generally leads to devastating cultural and social damage over several generations. The historical experience of Czechoslovakia's waves of exile between 1918 and 1989 provides a suitable case for research into scientific exile in its varied forms. This chapter focuses on the escape of scholars from Czechoslovakia in the years between 1948 and 1989, when the country was part of the Soviet power bloc.
Matthew Frank
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780199233649
- eISBN:
- 9780191716294
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199233649.001.0001
- Subject:
- History, European Modern History
This book focuses on how Britain perceived the mass movement of German populations from Poland and Czechoslovakia at the end of the Second World War. Drawing on a wide range of British archival ...
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This book focuses on how Britain perceived the mass movement of German populations from Poland and Czechoslovakia at the end of the Second World War. Drawing on a wide range of British archival material, it examines why the British came to regard the forcible removal of German populations from Poland and Czechoslovakia as a necessity, and evaluates the British response, both in official circles and in the public domain, to developments in central Europe once mass expulsion became a reality in 1945. Central to this study is the concept of ‘population transfer’: the contemporary idea that awkward minority problems could be solved rationally and constructively by removing the population concerned in an orderly and gradual manner, while avoiding unnecessary human suffering and economic disruption. The book demonstrates that while most British observers accepted the principle of population transfer, most were also consistently uneasy with the results of putting that principle into practice. This clash of ‘principle’ with ‘practice’ revealed much not only about the limitations of Britain's role, but also the hierarchy of British priorities in immediate post-war Europe.Less
This book focuses on how Britain perceived the mass movement of German populations from Poland and Czechoslovakia at the end of the Second World War. Drawing on a wide range of British archival material, it examines why the British came to regard the forcible removal of German populations from Poland and Czechoslovakia as a necessity, and evaluates the British response, both in official circles and in the public domain, to developments in central Europe once mass expulsion became a reality in 1945. Central to this study is the concept of ‘population transfer’: the contemporary idea that awkward minority problems could be solved rationally and constructively by removing the population concerned in an orderly and gradual manner, while avoiding unnecessary human suffering and economic disruption. The book demonstrates that while most British observers accepted the principle of population transfer, most were also consistently uneasy with the results of putting that principle into practice. This clash of ‘principle’ with ‘practice’ revealed much not only about the limitations of Britain's role, but also the hierarchy of British priorities in immediate post-war Europe.
Matthew Frank
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780199233649
- eISBN:
- 9780191716294
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199233649.003.0001
- Subject:
- History, European Modern History
This introductory chapter provides a brief overview of the historical and historiographical controversies relating to the expulsion of the Germans, as well as an outline of the methodology, ...
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This introductory chapter provides a brief overview of the historical and historiographical controversies relating to the expulsion of the Germans, as well as an outline of the methodology, arguments, and structure of the book. It sets out why the concept of ‘population transfer’ is essential to understanding British approaches and responses to the fate of the German populations of Poland and Czechoslovakia at the end of the Second World War.Less
This introductory chapter provides a brief overview of the historical and historiographical controversies relating to the expulsion of the Germans, as well as an outline of the methodology, arguments, and structure of the book. It sets out why the concept of ‘population transfer’ is essential to understanding British approaches and responses to the fate of the German populations of Poland and Czechoslovakia at the end of the Second World War.
Matthew Frank
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- May 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780199233649
- eISBN:
- 9780191716294
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199233649.003.0004
- Subject:
- History, European Modern History
This chapter examines initial British responses to developments in Poland and Czechoslovakia during the transition period from war to peace, when these states began expelling German populations and ...
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This chapter examines initial British responses to developments in Poland and Czechoslovakia during the transition period from war to peace, when these states began expelling German populations and creating faits accomplis on the ground in advance of any formal decisions being taken at a peace conference. The first signs of public disquiet in Britain at the manner in which Germans, from Czechoslovakia in particular, were being treated are examined, as is the decisive role that the British delegation at the Potsdam Conference played in ensuring that the Great Powers endorsed the principle of population transfer, and called for a halt to further expulsions until a plan for the organized transfer of Germans was in place.Less
This chapter examines initial British responses to developments in Poland and Czechoslovakia during the transition period from war to peace, when these states began expelling German populations and creating faits accomplis on the ground in advance of any formal decisions being taken at a peace conference. The first signs of public disquiet in Britain at the manner in which Germans, from Czechoslovakia in particular, were being treated are examined, as is the decisive role that the British delegation at the Potsdam Conference played in ensuring that the Great Powers endorsed the principle of population transfer, and called for a halt to further expulsions until a plan for the organized transfer of Germans was in place.
Thomas J. Sargent
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- October 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780691158709
- eISBN:
- 9781400847648
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691158709.003.0003
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, Economic History
This chapter examines several dramatic historical experiences that are consistent with the “rational expectations” view but that seem difficult to reconcile with the “momentum” model of inflation. ...
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This chapter examines several dramatic historical experiences that are consistent with the “rational expectations” view but that seem difficult to reconcile with the “momentum” model of inflation. The idea is to identify the measures that successfully brought drastic inflations under control in several European countries in the 1920s, namely: Austria, Hungary, Germany, and Poland, all of which experienced a dramatic “hyperinflation” in which, after the passage of several months, price indexes assumed astronomical proportions. The experience of Czechoslovakia is also considered. Within each of Austria, Hungary, Poland, and Germany, there occurred a dramatic change in the fiscal policy regime, which in each instance was associated with the end of a hyperinflation. Czechoslovakia deliberately adopted a relatively restrictive fiscal policy regime in order to maintain the value of its currency.Less
This chapter examines several dramatic historical experiences that are consistent with the “rational expectations” view but that seem difficult to reconcile with the “momentum” model of inflation. The idea is to identify the measures that successfully brought drastic inflations under control in several European countries in the 1920s, namely: Austria, Hungary, Germany, and Poland, all of which experienced a dramatic “hyperinflation” in which, after the passage of several months, price indexes assumed astronomical proportions. The experience of Czechoslovakia is also considered. Within each of Austria, Hungary, Poland, and Germany, there occurred a dramatic change in the fiscal policy regime, which in each instance was associated with the end of a hyperinflation. Czechoslovakia deliberately adopted a relatively restrictive fiscal policy regime in order to maintain the value of its currency.
ALAN McDOUGALL
- Published in print:
- 2004
- Published Online:
- January 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780199276271
- eISBN:
- 9780191706028
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199276271.003.0006
- Subject:
- History, European Modern History
In the GDR, two events provided a real test of the ‘68ers’ — part of the young generation that had been ‘born into socialism’ — loyalty to the East German state. These two events dominated the FDJ's ...
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In the GDR, two events provided a real test of the ‘68ers’ — part of the young generation that had been ‘born into socialism’ — loyalty to the East German state. These two events dominated the FDJ's agenda in 1968. The youth organization first played a prominent role in the campaign for a new socialist constitution in the GDR, which came into effect on 9 April after extensive public debate and a subsequent plebiscite. Attention then turned to the radical reform programme being undertaken under the leadership of Alexander Dubček in the neighbouring Socialist Republic of Czechoslovakia (ČSSR). The FDJ's zeal in supporting SED policy against this communist-inspired flowering of reform (widely known as the Prague Spring) was unequivocal, both before and after Warsaw Pact troops invaded Czechoslovakia on 21 August. This chapter shows that the extent of ideological ‘uncertainty’ about both the new constitution and, in particular, the Prague Spring highlighted the fact that for all its organizational improvements since the near collapse of June 1953, the FDJ was still a long way from instilling the desired sense of ‘socialist consciousness’ in all young East Germans in 1968.Less
In the GDR, two events provided a real test of the ‘68ers’ — part of the young generation that had been ‘born into socialism’ — loyalty to the East German state. These two events dominated the FDJ's agenda in 1968. The youth organization first played a prominent role in the campaign for a new socialist constitution in the GDR, which came into effect on 9 April after extensive public debate and a subsequent plebiscite. Attention then turned to the radical reform programme being undertaken under the leadership of Alexander Dubček in the neighbouring Socialist Republic of Czechoslovakia (ČSSR). The FDJ's zeal in supporting SED policy against this communist-inspired flowering of reform (widely known as the Prague Spring) was unequivocal, both before and after Warsaw Pact troops invaded Czechoslovakia on 21 August. This chapter shows that the extent of ideological ‘uncertainty’ about both the new constitution and, in particular, the Prague Spring highlighted the fact that for all its organizational improvements since the near collapse of June 1953, the FDJ was still a long way from instilling the desired sense of ‘socialist consciousness’ in all young East Germans in 1968.
Paul Robinson
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- January 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780199250219
- eISBN:
- 9780191719547
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199250219.003.0006
- Subject:
- History, European Modern History
This chapter describes the fate of other troops of the Russian Army who left Gallipoli and Lemnos and moved to Yugoslavia and Czechoslovakia, and in some cases then moved further west, especially to ...
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This chapter describes the fate of other troops of the Russian Army who left Gallipoli and Lemnos and moved to Yugoslavia and Czechoslovakia, and in some cases then moved further west, especially to France. As part of the ‘Action Russe’ programme of the Czech government, several hundred Russian officers entered universities in Czechoslovakia. Here they formed a military organization known as the Gallipoliiskoe Zemliachestvo. In Yugoslavia, Russian soldiers initially worked in groups on road-building and other construction projects, but as these came to an end eventually dispersed in search of employment elsewhere. Also in Yugoslavia, the Russians created three Cadet Corps to educate a future generation of Russian officers. From 1924 onwards, Wrangel's former Chief of Staff, General Shatilov, helped several hundred Russian soldiers move to France and Belgium, where the army established ‘work groups’ to help keep the soldiers' links with the army intact.Less
This chapter describes the fate of other troops of the Russian Army who left Gallipoli and Lemnos and moved to Yugoslavia and Czechoslovakia, and in some cases then moved further west, especially to France. As part of the ‘Action Russe’ programme of the Czech government, several hundred Russian officers entered universities in Czechoslovakia. Here they formed a military organization known as the Gallipoliiskoe Zemliachestvo. In Yugoslavia, Russian soldiers initially worked in groups on road-building and other construction projects, but as these came to an end eventually dispersed in search of employment elsewhere. Also in Yugoslavia, the Russians created three Cadet Corps to educate a future generation of Russian officers. From 1924 onwards, Wrangel's former Chief of Staff, General Shatilov, helped several hundred Russian soldiers move to France and Belgium, where the army established ‘work groups’ to help keep the soldiers' links with the army intact.
Peter J. Schmelz
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- May 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780195341935
- eISBN:
- 9780199866854
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195341935.003.0007
- Subject:
- Music, History, Western
This chapter discusses the musical repercussions of the 1968 Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia by focusing on an “unofficial” concert that took place in 1970 featuring two compositions, one of which ...
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This chapter discusses the musical repercussions of the 1968 Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia by focusing on an “unofficial” concert that took place in 1970 featuring two compositions, one of which was Edison Denisov's Laments (Plachi, 1966), the other a collectively composed work usually credited to Andrey Volkonsky called Rejoinder (Replika). Rejoinder in particular encapsulates many of the shifts that 1968 signaled even as it illuminates the ambiguous possibilities for resistance at a pivotal moment in “unofficial” Soviet music. By looking more closely at both Laments and Rejoinder, this chapter helps pinpoint the most important artistic and social changes that were occurring around 1970, near the end of the “Thaw” and the beginnings of both “Stagnation” and Yurchak's “late socialism.” These two works help further define the “paradox” of the 1970s simultaneous “immutability” and “displacement” that anthropologist Alexei Yurchak so provocatively proposes in his work. Edison Denisov Laments (Plachi) Andrey Volkonsky Rejoinder (Replika) 1968 Czechoslovakia resistance Alexei Yurchak Stagnation late socialismLess
This chapter discusses the musical repercussions of the 1968 Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia by focusing on an “unofficial” concert that took place in 1970 featuring two compositions, one of which was Edison Denisov's Laments (Plachi, 1966), the other a collectively composed work usually credited to Andrey Volkonsky called Rejoinder (Replika). Rejoinder in particular encapsulates many of the shifts that 1968 signaled even as it illuminates the ambiguous possibilities for resistance at a pivotal moment in “unofficial” Soviet music. By looking more closely at both Laments and Rejoinder, this chapter helps pinpoint the most important artistic and social changes that were occurring around 1970, near the end of the “Thaw” and the beginnings of both “Stagnation” and Yurchak's “late socialism.” These two works help further define the “paradox” of the 1970s simultaneous “immutability” and “displacement” that anthropologist Alexei Yurchak so provocatively proposes in his work. Edison Denisov Laments (Plachi) Andrey Volkonsky Rejoinder (Replika) 1968 Czechoslovakia resistance Alexei Yurchak Stagnation late socialism
Andrea Orzoff
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780195367812
- eISBN:
- 9780199867592
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195367812.001.0001
- Subject:
- History, European Modern History
Since 1918, Czechoslovakia has been known as East–Central Europe's most devoted democracy, an outpost of Western values in the East. While the country has had a more democratic experience than its ...
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Since 1918, Czechoslovakia has been known as East–Central Europe's most devoted democracy, an outpost of Western values in the East. While the country has had a more democratic experience than its neighbors, this book argues that the claim that Czechs are “native democrats,” devoted to liberal ideas, emerged from nationalist myth. Battle for the Castle tells the story of that myth's creation during the First World War, and how it was used to persuade the Great Powers to create Czechoslovakia out of pieces of Austria–Hungary. Tomáš Masaryk and Edvard Beneš, the two academics crafting the myth and employing it for wartime propaganda, became Czechoslovakia's first president and foreign minister. They tried to use the myth to outmaneuver political opponents at home and Czechoslovakia's enemies abroad. Those enemies, and the European Great Powers, also conducted their own propaganda campaigns targeting Czechoslovakia as a symbol of the postwar order. At home, while proclaiming themselves the protectors of democracy, Masaryk and Beneš played political hardball through their powerful political machine, the Castle, and defended their legacy against their detractors. Nazi occupation in 1938 seemed to prove out the Castle myth's claims about pacifist Czechs and aggressive Germans. During the war, Beneš remade the myth to reflect changed international circumstances, particularly the Soviet Union's new power. After the war and the 1948 Communist takeover of Czechoslovakia, the myth entered Anglo–American historiography of Czechoslovakia and Eastern Europe. Within academic histories of Czechoslovakia—many of them written by Masaryk's students or Castle colleagues—the myth was transmuted into fact.Less
Since 1918, Czechoslovakia has been known as East–Central Europe's most devoted democracy, an outpost of Western values in the East. While the country has had a more democratic experience than its neighbors, this book argues that the claim that Czechs are “native democrats,” devoted to liberal ideas, emerged from nationalist myth. Battle for the Castle tells the story of that myth's creation during the First World War, and how it was used to persuade the Great Powers to create Czechoslovakia out of pieces of Austria–Hungary. Tomáš Masaryk and Edvard Beneš, the two academics crafting the myth and employing it for wartime propaganda, became Czechoslovakia's first president and foreign minister. They tried to use the myth to outmaneuver political opponents at home and Czechoslovakia's enemies abroad. Those enemies, and the European Great Powers, also conducted their own propaganda campaigns targeting Czechoslovakia as a symbol of the postwar order. At home, while proclaiming themselves the protectors of democracy, Masaryk and Beneš played political hardball through their powerful political machine, the Castle, and defended their legacy against their detractors. Nazi occupation in 1938 seemed to prove out the Castle myth's claims about pacifist Czechs and aggressive Germans. During the war, Beneš remade the myth to reflect changed international circumstances, particularly the Soviet Union's new power. After the war and the 1948 Communist takeover of Czechoslovakia, the myth entered Anglo–American historiography of Czechoslovakia and Eastern Europe. Within academic histories of Czechoslovakia—many of them written by Masaryk's students or Castle colleagues—the myth was transmuted into fact.
Jennifer Jackson Preece
- Published in print:
- 1998
- Published Online:
- October 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780198294375
- eISBN:
- 9780191685033
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198294375.001.0001
- Subject:
- Political Science, International Relations and Politics
The collapse of Yugoslavia, Czechoslovakia, and the Soviet Union has resulted in a proliferation of discontented national minorities. Thus, the possibility for destabilising ethnic conflict has ...
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The collapse of Yugoslavia, Czechoslovakia, and the Soviet Union has resulted in a proliferation of discontented national minorities. Thus, the possibility for destabilising ethnic conflict has become acute. National minorities have accordingly emerged as a major focus of international relations in post-Cold War Europe. This book offers an innovative analysis of these developments. Scrutinising them within the historical context of changing practices and evolving norms, it reveals that the European national minority question is nothing new — rather its foundations extend deep into contemporary history. Moreover, the problem is intrinsically derivative of the nation-states system itself, a system which potentially intensifies minority disaffection. Examining these issues against the backdrop of relevant treaties, diplomatic negotiations, and international practices, this book presents an assessment of the fate of national minorities in the European states system.Less
The collapse of Yugoslavia, Czechoslovakia, and the Soviet Union has resulted in a proliferation of discontented national minorities. Thus, the possibility for destabilising ethnic conflict has become acute. National minorities have accordingly emerged as a major focus of international relations in post-Cold War Europe. This book offers an innovative analysis of these developments. Scrutinising them within the historical context of changing practices and evolving norms, it reveals that the European national minority question is nothing new — rather its foundations extend deep into contemporary history. Moreover, the problem is intrinsically derivative of the nation-states system itself, a system which potentially intensifies minority disaffection. Examining these issues against the backdrop of relevant treaties, diplomatic negotiations, and international practices, this book presents an assessment of the fate of national minorities in the European states system.
Elizabeth Boa
- Published in print:
- 1996
- Published Online:
- October 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780198158196
- eISBN:
- 9780191673283
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198158196.003.0004
- Subject:
- Literature, European Literature
In 1920, in Merano, Kafka began correspondence with Milena Jesenská when he was on leave from work due to ill health. As the two had already met in the previous year, and since Milena had requested ...
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In 1920, in Merano, Kafka began correspondence with Milena Jesenská when he was on leave from work due to ill health. As the two had already met in the previous year, and since Milena had requested permission for being able to translate his works, this correspondence continued until January 1921. Kafka and Milena met a few times during this correspondence, and Kafka's trust in Milena had become evident, since he entrusted her with the letter that he had not been able to send to his father. Milena passed on Kafka's diaries to Max Brod. This chapter discusses how Milena encountered several different conflicts, and these mainly involved personal relationships. Since Milena came from Czechoslovakia, this chapter explains how national identity serves as an integral element in Milena's will strength.Less
In 1920, in Merano, Kafka began correspondence with Milena Jesenská when he was on leave from work due to ill health. As the two had already met in the previous year, and since Milena had requested permission for being able to translate his works, this correspondence continued until January 1921. Kafka and Milena met a few times during this correspondence, and Kafka's trust in Milena had become evident, since he entrusted her with the letter that he had not been able to send to his father. Milena passed on Kafka's diaries to Max Brod. This chapter discusses how Milena encountered several different conflicts, and these mainly involved personal relationships. Since Milena came from Czechoslovakia, this chapter explains how national identity serves as an integral element in Milena's will strength.
Mark Cornwall and R J W Evans (eds)
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- January 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780197263914
- eISBN:
- 9780191734359
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- British Academy
- DOI:
- 10.5871/bacad/9780197263914.001.0001
- Subject:
- History, European Modern History
This book explores the history of Czechoslovakia, a state neglected in British historiography, but which is vital for understanding Europe after 1918. The country twice lost its independence, firstly ...
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This book explores the history of Czechoslovakia, a state neglected in British historiography, but which is vital for understanding Europe after 1918. The country twice lost its independence, firstly to Adolf Hitler's Germany and then to Joseph Stalin's USSR — events that sent shock waves through the continent. The fourteen chapters deal with four main subject areas: aspects of Czech national society, the Czechs' relationship with Slovaks and Germans, and the British dimension.Less
This book explores the history of Czechoslovakia, a state neglected in British historiography, but which is vital for understanding Europe after 1918. The country twice lost its independence, firstly to Adolf Hitler's Germany and then to Joseph Stalin's USSR — events that sent shock waves through the continent. The fourteen chapters deal with four main subject areas: aspects of Czech national society, the Czechs' relationship with Slovaks and Germans, and the British dimension.
