Khrushchev: Nikita Khrushchev was the Soviet leader who initiated de-Stalinization after Stalin's death. He aimed to distance himself from Stalin's harsh methods while implementing reforms.
Thaw: The Thaw refers to a period of relative political openness and cultural liberalization in the Soviet Union during Khrushchev's leadership. It was part of the de-Stalinization process.
Destalinization Speech: In 1956, Khrushchev delivered a secret speech denouncing Stalin's crimes and initiating de-Stalinization within the Communist Party. This speech played a crucial role in exposing some of Stalin's atrocities.