Question

Why were Eastern Europeans able to break free of communist governments and Soviet domination in the late 1980s?

Answer 1

Eastern Europeans were able to break free of communist governments and Soviet domination in the late 1980s because the communist regime was reluctant to intervene in East Europe. At the same time, there was increased agitation from the citizens of these countries for freedom and civil liberties. 

Answer 2

The communist regime of USSR led by Gorbachev was no longer willing to intervene in the eastern countries, in a time that the countries were facing increasing pressure for freedom and liberties. The success of some early uprising in countries like Hungary endeared other countries to follow suit.