ActiveHistory: IBDP History

In this episode, we review The Cold War: A New History by John Lewis Gaddis, examining how the author interprets the global conflict that defined the second half of the twentieth century. We discuss Gaddis’s analysis of key events, superpower rivalry, and the ideological, political, and economic forces that shaped the Cold War era.

How did World War One push Russia toward the breaking point in February 1917? In this episode, we analyse the war’s effects on the economy, the military, social cohesion, and the legitimacy of the Tsarist government to understand how wartime pressures produced a revolutionary crisis.

How crucial was World War One in bringing about the Russian Revolution of October 1917? In this episode, we analyse the war’s impact on Russia’s economy, society, military, and political legitimacy to assess whether it acted as the decisive trigger or merely intensified long-standing tensions.

Journey into one of history’s greatest Arctic mysteries: the rise, resilience, and disappearance of the Norse settlements in Greenland. In this episode, we uncover the real story behind Viking expansion westward—from Erik the Red’s exile-driven voyage to the fleeting outpost at L’Anse aux Meadows and the final, haunting traces of a vanished colony.Blending saga literature, archaeology, climate science, and Inuit perspectives, we explore why these tough, sea-faring settlers succeeded for centuries in one of the world’s harshest environments—and why they ultimately failed to survive. Was it climate change? Trade collapse? Cultural rigidity? Conflict? Or all of the above?Perfect for IB History students and curious listeners alike, this episode reveals how historians piece together evidence to solve a thousand-year-old puzzle. A gripping investigation of adaptation, identity, and what happens when a society pushes the limits of its world.

How did the Aztec Empire rise to dominance in central Mexico during the early 15th century? In this episode, we explore the political structures, military strategies, economic systems, and cultural achievements that defined the empire between 1428 and 1469. A rigorous, evidence-based examination of one of Mesoamerica’s most influential civilizations.

Unlock the secrets of top-level history analysis with this deep-dive masterclass on IB History source skills. In this episode, we break down exactly how to tackle every question on Paper 1—from crafting sharp inferences and decoding an author’s message to mastering OPVL, comparison, and the final mini-essay. Using rich historical examples, including apartheid South Africa and the Sophiatown removals, we explore how to read sources like a historian, integrate your own knowledge, and avoid the common traps that hold students back.Whether you're preparing for exams or just want to think more critically about the world around you, this episode gives you the tools to analyse evidence, question biases, and build powerful arguments. Perfect for IB History students, teachers, and anyone who wants to level up their historical thinking.

This episode examines the extent to which World War One contributed to Stalin’s rise to power. We explore the war’s role in weakening the Tsarist regime, accelerating revolutionary movements, and reshaping the political landscape Stalin would eventually master. A thoughtful analysis for students, history fans, and anyone curious about the origins of Soviet leadership.

How resilient was the Tsarist regime as Europe stood on the brink of World War One? In this episode, we analyse Russia’s political structures, social tensions, economic pressures, and the strength of opposition groups to assess the true stability of Nicholas II’s rule in 1914. A concise yet rigorous exploration for students and history enthusiasts.

This podcast considers the complex history of the Vietnam War, exploring its origins in Vietnamese nationalism and French colonialism, and its escalation through the Cold War rivalry between the United States and communist powers. The hosts analyse the differing motivations and policies of US presidents from Truman to Nixon regarding involvement, highlighting the internal political and social factors within both Vietnam and the United States that influenced the conflict's trajectory. Furthermore, the sources discuss the reasons for the US's failure to achieve its objectives and the eventual withdrawal, alongside the war's significant impact on international relations and domestic American society. The historiography of the war is also touched upon, noting the ongoing debates and varying interpretations of its causes and consequences.

The podcast examines the multifaceted reasons behind the US failure in the Vietnam War and its wide-ranging consequences. They analyse the impact of guerrilla warfare, the ideological commitment of the Vietnamese, and the social and political missteps of the American forces within Vietnam. Furthermore, the sources explore the significant domestic pressures in the United States, including the anti-war movement, economic strains, and political miscalculations, which undermined the war effort. Finally, the texts discuss how the Vietnam War influenced the Cold War, US foreign policy, and American society, leaving a lasting and divisive legacy.

This podcast explores the transformation of the Civil Rights Movement after 1965, examining the shift from integration and nonviolence towards Black Nationalism and militant self-defence. They investigate the reasons for these changes, including disillusionment with the pace of progress, socio-economic disparities in the urban North, and the growing influence of figures like Malcolm X. Furthermore, the sources analyse the results of this radicalisation, such as the emergence of the Black Panther Party, the rise of black cultural pride, and the increased focus on issues of economic inequality, alongside the tragic assassinations of key leaders like Martin Luther King Jr.

This podcast offers an analysis of Richard Nixon's domestic policies, evaluating both their successes and failures. They explore various policy areas, including economy, environment, youth, women's rights, civil rights, and welfare, with some discussion of the complexities of his economic management. Additionally, it presents a debate regarding whether Nixon's foreign policy methods undermined democratic principles through secrecy and clandestine operations, considering arguments both for and against this viewpoint. Collectively, the podcast provides a framework for understanding the impact and controversies of the Nixon administration on the United States.

This podcast analyses Richard Nixon's foreign policy during his presidency, focusing on his key initiatives and their outcomes. It examines his efforts to end the Vietnam War, his groundbreaking détente strategy with the Soviet Union and China through "Triangular Diplomacy," and his administration's actions in Chile and the Middle East. While highlighting successes like normalising relations with China and achieving arms control treaties, the podcast also discusses controversial aspects, including the escalation of the Vietnam War, interventions in other nations' affairs, and the economic repercussions of Middle East policy. Ultimately, it suggests that the evaluation of Nixon's foreign policy depends on the criteria used to measure success and the extent to which the administration as a whole is considered, rather than just Nixon himself.

This podcast offers a focused investigation into one of the most contested case studies in Cold War Latin America: the overthrow of Salvador Allende in Chile in 1973. Through discussion of declassified U.S. documents, economic data, and Chilean political developments, it explores the relative importance of foreign intervention versus domestic factors. Students preparing for IB Paper 3 will find this episode particularly useful for evaluating U.S. foreign policy in the Americas, Cold War containment, and the causes and consequences of military rule in Latin America.

This episode considers the Alliance for Progress, a significant initiative of the Kennedy administration aimed at fostering economic and social development in Latin America during the Cold War. It provides a comprehensive overview of the programme's establishment, objectives as outlined in the Charter of Punta del Este, and its implementation, examining the roles of various actors like the US government, Latin American nations, and international organisations. Additionally, ir critically assess the successes and failures of the Alliance, considering factors such as political will, economic structures, and social reforms, alongside the ever-present context of US foreign policy and the threat of communism.

Considers the reasons for, and features of, Eisenhower's "New Look" in foreign policy. It then proceeds to consider successes and failures, with a particular focus on countries in the Americas (e.g. Guatemala, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Nixon's visit to Latin America).

This podcast analyses the impact of Truman's containment policies on Latin America between 1947 and 1953. It argues that Truman, preoccupied with communism in Europe and Asia, prioritised military solutions and regional stability over economic aid and democratic progress in Latin America, fostering resentment. Initial positive sentiment following the Act of Chapultepec, which promised sovereignty, was soon undermined by interventions and the Rio Pact, pushing Latin American nations into an anti-communist stance without reciprocal benefits. The establishment of the OAS and the School of the Americas further solidified this approach, often supporting autocratic regimes. Despite a brief acknowledgement of socio-economic needs with the Point Four program, military aid remained the focus, leading to rising anti-Americanism and strained relationships by the end of Truman's presidency.

This episode examines Fidel Castro's rule in Cuba, exploring his rise to power, the consolidation and maintenance of his authority, and the aims and impacts of his domestic and foreign policies from the revolution in 1959 into the post-Soviet era. They analyse the interplay of ideology, political control, economic strategies, social reforms (particularly in areas like health, education, and women's rights), cultural influence, and the treatment of opposition and minorities. Furthermore, the texts discuss Cuba's relationship with the United States and the Soviet Union, its role in international affairs, and the long-term consequences of Castro's leadership on Cuban society.

Compares and contrasts the methods and conditions which led to the rise to power of Mao in China (1949) and Castro in Cuba (1959), focusing on such themes as:Conditions > economic factorsConditions > social divisionConditions > impact of warConditions > weakness of political systemMethods > persuasion and propagandaMethods > coercion and forceMethods > the role of leadersMethods > Ideology

Focuses on comparing and contrasting SEVEN Cold War policies of each of the Presidents (Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon).This podcast is designed to accompany the decision-making simulation at ActiveHistory entitled "Which US President are YOU?" (activehistory.co.uk/presidents).This provides a great way to draw together key points for the "Cold War" section of Paper 2 IBDP History, as well as Paper 3 Americas for Higher Level.

Deals with each of the following subquestions:1. How far did weaknesses in the League’s aims, structure, organisation and membership make failure inevitable? 2. What successes did the League have with humanitarian work (refugees, health, working conditions), and why were these important? 3. How and why did the League try to secure disarmament in the 1920s, and why did these attempts fail?4. What were the Leagues most notable successes and failures with regard to border disputes (e.g. Vilna 1920, Aaland Islands 1920–21, Corfu 1923, Bulgaria 1925)?

Covers the subquestions:how different were motives and aims of the Big Three (Clemenceau, Lloyd George, Wilson) at Versailles?What were the key terms of the Versailles Treaty in terms of territory (Saar, Colonies, Rhineland, Alsace-Lorraine, Polish Corridor), reparations, armaments, war guilt and the League of Nations?Based on this, how far did each of the Big Three get what they wanted, and why?How and why did the Germans argue that the treaty was unfair?How, nevertheless, could the key terms of the Treaty be justified at the time?What was the Social, economic and political impact of the Treaty in Germany to the end of 1923?

Focuses on the question: "What were the methods and conditions which led to Castro becoming ruler of Cuba in 1959?".It focuses on the following methods and conditions, as per the demands of the IBDP History Syllabus:Conditions > economic factorsConditions > social divisionConditions > impact of warConditions > weakness of political systemMethods > persuasion and propagandaMethods > coercion and force;Methods > the role of leadersMethods > Ideology

"Discuss the reasons for, and the impact of, youth protests in the 1960s and 1970s in the countries of the Americas". Focuses on three big themes: [1] feminism[2] civil rights and [3] anti-war protests. Considers CAUSES for the rise of such movements, their SUCCESSES and FAILURES.Although the podcast focuses on the USA, references are also made to Canada and Latin American countries too.

“Was the Weimar Republic doomed from the start?”Covers such things as:• How did Germany emerge from defeat at the end of the First World War?• What was the impact of the Treaty of Versailles on the Republic?• How far was the Weimar Constitution a source of weakness?o Why was proportional representation a weakness of the Weimar Constitution?o Why was Article 48 a weakness of the Weimar constitution?• Political disorder, 1919–23:o Left-wing > What did the Spartacists want to achieve? o Right-wing > Describe what happened in the Kapp Putsch. o Why did France and Belgium occupy the Ruhr?– Results of the Ruhr invasion > economic crises and hyper-inflation– Results of the Ruhr invasion > Hitler and the Munich Putsch• To what extent did the Republic recover in the “Streseman Era”, 1923-1928?o Economic successes / failureso Foreign policy successes / failureso Cultural successes / failures

Covers such topics as:• Did the Alliance System and global diplomacy make war more likely or less likely? • How far did colonial problems create tensions between the Great Powers? • Why were problems in the Balkans so difficult for the Great Powers to solve? • How did the assassination of Franz Ferdinand lead to war? 

The hosts primarily explore the reforms initiated by Mikhail Gorbachev within the Soviet Union and the multifaceted factors contributing to the end of the Cold War. Gorbachev's policies of glasnost (openness) and perestroika (economic restructuring) aimed to address political and socio-economic issues within the USSR and ease international tensions. The podcast also examines the arms race between the US and the Soviet Union, alongside the revolutions in Eastern Europe and the symbolic fall of the Berlin Wall as critical elements in this historical shift. Ultimately, the documents suggest a complex interplay of internal Soviet reforms and external pressures that led to the dissolution of the Eastern Bloc and the conclusion of the Cold War.

"Evaluate the causes for, and significance of, the policy of detente between the US and USSR between 1971 and 1979"The podcast covers the following factors:Economic > the financial benefits of reducing arms expenditure for a US drained by the Vietnam War and for a USSR that faced a stalled economy and weak satellite states.Military > both countries were deeply aware of their nuclear capabilities (MAD: mutually assured destruction), and having achieved parity, were more prepared to discuss arms limitation. Politically > (a) the US potential gain from the Sino–Soviet split by fostering separate relationships with both countries whilst driving them further apart; Politically > (b) the Soviet wish to secure American recognition of the post-war borders of its satellite states; Politically > (c) the impact of Ostpolitik which had relaxed tension in Europe and encouraged trade.

A key focal point of IBDP Paper 2 History. The Cold War, a geopolitical struggle between the United States and the Soviet Union, shaped global politics for nearly half a century. At its core, the Cold War was a battle of ideologies, with President Harry S. Truman representing democratic capitalism and Premier Joseph Stalin embodying communist authoritarianism. Both leaders played crucial roles in the conflict, particularly in shaping early Cold War events. By examining two key similarities and two primary differences in their approaches, this essay explores the significance of their leadership in shaping the course of the Cold War. The similarities include their contributions to the division of Germany and the strategic importance of Eastern Europe. The differences lie in their perspectives on nuclear weapons and economic strategies, such as the Marshall Plan and Salami Tactics.

This podcast examines the intertwined roles of US President John F. Kennedy and Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev in shaping the Cold War. Both leaders are shown to have escalated tensions, particularly during the Berlin and Cuban Missile Crises, but they also took steps towards de-escalation through diplomatic channels and agreements. The texts contrast their leadership styles and approaches to ideological expansion, with Khrushchev often seen as more impulsive and Kennedy as more calculated. Ultimately, the sources suggest that their complex interactions defined a critical period of the Cold War, highlighting both the dangers of confrontation and the necessity of dialogue.

A fantastic topic of Study for Paper 3 Americas in the IBDP History Syllabus. This podcast covers the causes and impact of the Red Scare.

Investigates the question "What were the causes and consequences of the Suez Crisis?"Part 1 - Causes: e.g. Aggression / Mistrust / Ideology. Part 2 - Consequences: e.g. economic / social / political / cultural / military factors.

The first half focuses on the causes, the second half on the consequences, of the Berlin Blockade.Part 1 - Causes: Focuses on Aggression / Mistrust / Ideology. Part 2 - Consequences: Focuses on economic / social / political / cultural / military factors.Reference to different historians and the orthodox / revisionist / post-revisionist schools of history are outlined.

Investigates the degree to which the policy of peaceful co-existence improved superpower relations up to and including 1964, with a focus on such events as:• 1947 - Truman Doctrine / Marshall Plan• 1948 - Berlin Blockade• 1950-53 – Korean War• 1958 -61 – Berlin Crisis• 1962 – Cuban Missile Crisis

Investigates the question "Was Hitler a gambler, or a planner, in foreign affairs?".Makes references to AJP Taylor and Hugh Trevor-Roper in particular, and finds evidence on both sides of the argument, considering:Remilitarisation of the RhinelandAnschlussSudeten Crisis, Munich ConferenceInvasion of CzechoslovakiaNazi-Soviet PactInvasion of Poland.

This podcast examines the impact of the US policy of containment on superpower relations 1947 - 1964. In the IB exam, 1947 is the Truman Doctrine; 1964 is the end of the Khrushchev era. Rather than provide a narrative account of key events, it instead considers the following, and gives a judgement on how each one impacted upon Superpower relations.• 1947 - Truman Doctrine / Marshall Plan• 1948 - Berlin Blockade• 1950-53 – Korean War. • 1958 -61 – Berlin Crisis• 1962 – Cuban Missile Crisis

The Origins of the Cold War is a central topic for IB Paper 2. Thispodcast will cover the breakdown of the grand alliance and the emergence of superpower rivalry in Europe and Asia (1943–1949). It will compare and contrast the roles of the US (especially) and the USSR (especially Stalin).It pays attention to the role of ideology; fear and aggression; and economic interests. Key thinkers such as Gaddis are mentioned, as are the differing views of orthodox, revisionist and post-revisionist historians.

Two Cold War Crises: Compared and Contrasted (Berlin 1961, Cuba 1962)Designed for: IBDP History students (P2 Cold War, P3 Americas)ActiveHistory Topic Page:https://www.activehistory.co.uk/ib-history/Overview:Paper 2 essay questions in IBDP history often ask students to compare and contrast the causes or consequences of two cold war crises in different regions, or the role of leaders within them. This podcast provides essential tips on how to structure such essays, using the Berlin Crisis of 1961 and the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962 as examples (with Kennedy and Khrushchev being the leaders in question). Designed for: IBDP History students (P2 Cold War, P3 Americas). ActiveHistory Topic Page: https://www.activehistory.co.uk/ib-history/Overview: Paper 2 essay questions in IBDP history often ask students to compare and contrast the causes or consequences of two cold war crises in different regions, or the role of leaders within them. This podcast provides essential tips on how to structure such essays, using the Berlin Crisis of 1961 and the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962 as examples (with Kennedy and Khrushchev being the leaders in question).

"What were the causes and consequences of the Cuban Missile Crisis?". Designed for: IBDP History Students (P2, Cold War; P3 Americas). ActiveHistory Topic Page:https://www.activehistory.co.uk/Miscellaneous/menus/IB/americas/jfk.phpOverview:This podcasts stresses that the Cuban Missile Crisies is a great example of a Cold War crisis for Paper 2 IBDP history, as it also brings in two cold war leaders: Kennedy and Khrushchev. It focuses on the CAUSES of the crisis (and who was perhaps most to blame for it); how close it came to war between the superpowers; how and why it was resolved; and with what consequences.

What were the causes and consequences of the Berlin Crisis of 1961?Designed for: IBDP History students (Paper 2 Cold War Crisis).ActiveHistory Topic Page:https://www.activehistory.co.uk/Miscellaneous/menus/IB/americas/jfk.phpOverview:The events leading up to the building of the Berlin Wall in 1961 is a great example of a Cold War crisis for Paper 2 IBDP history, as it also brings in two cold war leaders: Kennedy and Khrushchev. This podcast is on the CAUSES of the crisis (and who was perhaps most to blame for it); how close it came to war between the superpowers; how and why it was resolved; and with what consequences.

"How should students approach each of the questions in the Sourcework Paper?"Designed for: IBDP History students, Paper 1 (sourcework) ActiveHistory Topic Page: https://www.activehistory.co.uk/ib-history/Overview: This guide focuses on equipping students with the skills to analyse historical sources within the context of the IB History Paper 1 examination. It uses the topic of "Rights and Protest," specifically the civil rights movement in the United States (1954-1965) and apartheid in South Africa (1948-1964), as case studies. The resource provides methods for interpreting sources, understanding their value and limitations, and synthesising information from various documents with existing knowledge. The guide highlights the importance of source evaluation, comparison, and critical thinking for success in the exam. It offers structured approaches to answering different question types, including those assessing comprehension, evaluation, comparison, and synthesis. The ultimate aim is to enable students to construct well-supported arguments and demonstrate a nuanced understanding of historical events.

"What were the aims and achievements of the US Civil Rights Movement c.1954-1965?" Designed for: IBDP History Students (Paper 1, Rights and Protest; P3 Americas). ActiveHistory Topic Page: https://www.activehistory.co.uk/Miscellaneous/menus/IB/civil_rights/ Overview: The podcast outlines the African American Civil Rights Movement, focusing on the period up to 1965. The hosts detail the long-standing oppression of African Americans, from slavery to segregation, and the struggle for equality. Significant events, such as the Montgomery bus boycott and the Little Rock Nine, are examined alongside the roles of key organisations like the NAACP, SCLC, and SNCC. Presidential actions by Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy, and Johnson, landmark Supreme Court cases like Brown v. Board of Education, and legislative milestones like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 are also highlighted. The documents reveal both the successes and the limitations of these efforts in achieving meaningful change for African Americans, whilst also illustrating the significant tensions between differing civil rights groups.

"Why was Apartheid introduced in 1948? What was its impact? How effectively was it resisted in the years up to 1964?"Designed for: IBDP History students, Paper 1 (Rights and Protest - Apartheid South Africa). ActiveHistory topic page:https://www.activehistory.co.uk/Miscellaneous/menus/IB/apartheid_south_africaOverview: This podcast explores South Africa's history, culture, and the impact of apartheid. It includes excerpts from short stories and personal accounts, revealing the everyday realities of life in South Africa during this period. These narratives highlight themes of displacement, identity, and the struggle against racial segregation, while another focuses on the history of Indian immigrants in Natal. The sources offer diverse perspectives on the complexities of South African society and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.

"Compare and contrast the rule of two dictators from two different regions"Designed for: IBDP History Paper 2 (Rule of Authoritarian States)ActiveHistory Topic Page: https://www.activehistory.co.uk/ib-history/Overview:This podcast, based around the revision exercises by Russel Tarr at www.activehistory.co.uk, compares and contrasts the authoritarian rule of Mao Zedong in China and Fidel Castro in Cuba across various facets of governance. It examines their use of force, political strategies including democratic centralism, and cultural control through propaganda and censorship. The podcast also explores their social policies related to healthcare and education, as well as their economic reforms concerning land and industry. Additionally, it analyses the positions of women and treatment of minorities under each regime. Finally, the podcast examines their differing foreign policies, with Castro aligning with the USSR and Mao eventually seeking closer ties with the United States.

"Why, and with what results, did feminist movements emerge in the Americas after 1945?"Designed for: IBDP (Paper 3 Americas - Civil Rights and social movements in the Americas post-1945)ActiveHistory Topic Page:https://www.activehistory.co.uk/Miscellaneous/menus/IB/americas/feminism.phpOverview: This podcast focuses on the causes for the rise of feminism in the Americas after World War Two, and the extent of its impact upon the lives of women.

"Analyse the impact of Castro's policies upon the lives of women".Designed for: IBDP History students (P2: Rule of Authoritarian States; P3: Political developments in Latin America, 1945- 1980)ActiveHistory Topic Page: https://www.activehistory.co.uk/Miscellaneous/menus/IB/castro/index-rule.phpOverview: This podcast focuses particularly on the impact upon women of Castro's regime, which is a popular point of focus in Paper 2 especially.

"What were the causes of the Korean War?"Designed for:IBDP History students (P2: Causes, Practices, Effects of War; P2: Cold War Crises; P3: Cold War and the Americas).ActiveHistory Topic Page:https://www.activehistory.co.uk/Miscellaneous/menus/GCSE/Korean_War.phpOverview:This podcast examines the origins and causes of the Korean War, exploring the complex interplay of domestic Korean politics and Cold War superpower rivalries. The hosts cover various perspectives, from the initial North Korean invasion to theories of American provocation and Soviet manipulation. A key theme is the division of Korea and the competing ambitions of Kim Il-sung and Syngman Rhee, both seeking unification. The roles of Truman, Stalin, and Mao are scrutinised, with emphasis on miscalculations, strategic objectives, and ideological motivations. The hosts investigate whether the conflict was primarily a civil war, a superpower proxy war, or a combination of both. Historiographical analyses reveal shifting interpretations over time, influenced by access to new archival evidence and evolving geopolitical contexts.

"What were the causes and consequences of the Red Scare in 1950s America?"Designed for: Higher Level IBDP History: Paper 3 (History of the Americas).ActiveHistory Topic Page: https://www.activehistory.co.uk/Miscellaneous/menus/IB/red_scare.phpOverview: This podcast examines the pervasive impact of McCarthyism and the Cold War on American society and politics from the late 1940s through the 1950s. It explores how the fear of communism fuelled widespread suspicion, eroded civil liberties, and stifled dissent. The hosts discuss the actions of key figures like Joseph McCarthy and J. Edgar Hoover, as well as the impact on Hollywood, education, and various social movements. Additionally, US foreign policy shifts, particularly towards Latin America, are scrutinised in light of the overarching anti-communist agenda. Ultimately, the hosts illustrate how the quest to combat communism paradoxically compromised American values and freedoms.

This podcast is designed for IBDP students covering History of the Americas for Paper 3, and seeks to answer the question "What was the significance of the Korean War for two countries of the Americas?" - namely, the USA and Canada.The podcast draws upon the materials available at ActiveHistory here:https://www.activehistory.co.uk/Miscellaneous/menus/GCSE/Korean_War.php

A podcast covering the key bullet points of the IBDP History Syllabus, based around the scheme of work at www.activehistory.co.uk:Consolidation and maintenance of power• Use of legal methods; use of force; charismatic leadership; dissemination of propaganda• Nature, extent and treatment of opposition• The impact of the success and/or failure of foreign policy on the maintenance of powerAims and results of policies• Aims and impact of domestic economic, political, cultural and social policies• The impact of policies on women and minorities• Authoritarian control and the extent to which it was achieved