Operation Keelhaul & Soviet Pressure student worksheet explores one of the most controversial aspects of post-war Europe. After the Second World War, Allied governments agreed to return Soviet citizens from Western-controlled areas to the USSR. This policy, shaped by agreements such as Yalta and pressure from Stalin, led to the forced repatriation of millions. Many individuals resisted return, fearing imprisonment or punishment. This lesson helps students understand how national decisions were influenced by international agreements, and how these responses affected displaced persons.

This student worksheet is designed to guide learners through source-based analysis using a clear structure aligned with IB Paper 1 skills. Students engage directly with historical sources, including extracts from historians such as Mark Wyman and Norman Naimark, as well as a supporting video source. The activities encourage students to explain content, analyse context, and examine perspectives, building a strong foundation for answering source-based questions.

What students will learn

Students will:

• Explain how source content reveals national responses to displacement
• Analyse how context influenced Allied and Soviet decision-making
• Examine different perspectives on forced repatriation
• Understand the impact of Soviet pressure on international policy
• Evaluate the strengths and limitations of post-war responses
• Develop structured responses using evidence from multiple sources

These activities help students move beyond simple description and begin to build clear, supported arguments.

What’s included

• Student worksheet with structured source-based questions
• Source A (video), Source B and Source C extracts
• Guided questions for class discussion and written responses
• Extended response task focusing on strengths and limitations
• Teacher answer sheet with clear guidance and example points

This resource saves preparation time while giving students a focused way to practise key exam skills.

Curriculum alignment

This resource is particularly useful for:

• IB DP History – Paper 1 (Sources and Perspectives)
• IB Focused Study: Conflict and displacement
• Units on post-war Europe and Cold War tensions

Operation Keelhaul & Soviet Pressure provides a clear and structured way for students to engage with complex historical issues while developing the skills needed for source-based assessment.

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