Central and Eastern Europe in Context

IB DP HL History of Europe - Topic 18: Post-war Central and Eastern Europe (1945-2000)

Lesson 1 - Central and Eastern Europe in Context

Lesson Objectives

• To explain the formation and nature of Central and Eastern Europe

• To outline the key events and themes of Soviet domination

• To consider the broad themes of Central and Eastern European history

Lesson Activities

• Geography of Central and Eastern Europe: Students are presented with a map of Central and Eastern Europe (slide from the provided lesson). They must label key countries (e.g., West Germany, East Germany, Poland, Czechoslovakia, etc.). What is the significance of the different regions and colors on the map? How does geography influence political control?

• Historical Context and Key Themes: Students read a brief historical summary covering the Soviet occupation and control of Central and Eastern Europe. For each country (East Germany, Bulgaria, Romania, etc.), students summarize the key historical context in one word (e.g., resistance, repression, etc.).

• Timeline and Chronological Understanding: Students review a timeline of events (1945–2000) and color-code events based on their significance (political, social, economic, international/foreign policy, leadership change). Analyze the pattern and frequency of events. What does the timeline reveal about the Soviet strategies and control in the region? Which types of events (political, social, etc.) dominate?