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| 1953 |
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| The slow pace of economic recovery across Eastern Europe contributed to mounting popular discontent, which, in the absence of any organized opposition to the existing regimes, was expressed as nationalist resentment toward the Soviet presence. The death of Stalin in 1953 was viewed by many Eastern Europeans as an opportunity to reduce levels of Soviet control, thus de-Stalinization was accompanied by a degree of social volatility across the region. The most serious disorders in the wake of Stalin's death occurred in East Berlin, where the government had loosened some restrictions on worker protests. | 1 |
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| May 28 |
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| The Soviet Union abolished the Soviet Control Commission in East Germany and created the post of high commissioner, to which Vladimir Semyenov was appointed. | 2 |
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| June 16 |
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| The government's announcement of new norms for construction workers led to a strike by East Berlin workers and then, on the following day, to a full-fledged revolt. | 3 |
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| June 17 |
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| The Soviet Union sent tanks and troops against the 30,000 East Berlin rioters. Twenty-five persons died in the violence. | 4 |
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| June 22 |
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| As arrests continued, the Communist government offered a ten-point reform program, including provisions for pay increases, reduced work, and improved living conditions. Despite these government concessions to workers, 600 persons were subsequently executed for their involvement in the uprising. | 5 |
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