The dictator of East Germany, Walter Ulbricht, enacted a series of reforms known as the New Economic System from 1963 onward. This program consisted, to put it in a very simplified way, of shifting investments away from heavy industry towards consumer goods and high technology, as well as listening to specialists/technocrats rather than party ideologues on economic matters.
However, as time went by this program alienated a growing number of members of the SED Politburo, and Ulbricht's hold on power gradually weakened until he was overthrown by Erich Honecker, with the approval of the USSR's leadership, in 1971.
What could be done for Ulbricht to stay on power until his death (and perhaps have a different successor, if necessary), and was the New Economic System viable in the long run? Could having a Soviet Union that is more supportive of some reforms help?
@David T @Alexniko @Meordal
However, as time went by this program alienated a growing number of members of the SED Politburo, and Ulbricht's hold on power gradually weakened until he was overthrown by Erich Honecker, with the approval of the USSR's leadership, in 1971.
What could be done for Ulbricht to stay on power until his death (and perhaps have a different successor, if necessary), and was the New Economic System viable in the long run? Could having a Soviet Union that is more supportive of some reforms help?
@David T @Alexniko @Meordal