| Source | The Times, 21st August 1968 |
| Event referred to | USSR Invasion of Czech Republic, August 20th 1968 |
| Technological characteristics | Text file from print out from library microfiche |
| Description of the source | Newspaper article, obtained through Library microfiche archives of Times newspaper. Language: English. Availability to print from microfiche; copyright remains with the Times. |
| Contextualisation of the source | The Times is regarded as a conservative newspaper. The events of 20th August 1968 in Czechoslovakia were reported on the front page of the times on 21st August 1968 with a variety of articles. This article from a reporter who has only recently returned from Prague focuses on the lead up to the invasion and suggests possible excuses for the event |
| Interpretation of the source | This source is critical of the Russian failure to provide a reason for their attack on Czechoslovakia and suggests instances when attack had been more likely. By reporting on the fact that some members of the soviet bloc had been against taking military action against Czechoslovakia (Poland and Hungary), the writer is suggesting that there were divisions amongst the members of the soviet bloc.
The writer is also suggesting that Russia would find it difficult to find a replacement for the Czech leader, Dubcek given the amount of popular support for him and his ideas.
This final paragraph suggests that Russian attacks on Czechoslovakia had the opposite effect from that intended. It mobilised support for the Czech government.
This suggests that the support for non-violent change in Czechoslovakia was strong and that the solidarity of the soviet bloc countries was in doubt, suggesting weakness.
|
| Original Contents | |
| Original Contents (English Translation) | |
