Tossup

This leader received the “Letter of three hundred” from scientists decrying a decline in biology research. This leader had Machine-Tractor Stations rapidly closed and forced farmers to buy the leftover equipment. A visit to the Iowa farm of Roswell Garst (10[2])inspired (10[1])this leader to grow new hybridized (10[1])corn breeds (10[1])in his country, which largely failed due to climate differences with the US. This leader recruited Komsomol volunteers to move to new farms in the Virgin Lands program. (-5[1])At the 20th Congress, this leader gave a speech titled “On the Cult of Personality and Its Consequences” that denounced his predecessor and signaled the beginning of a relaxation of censorship called this leader’s “Thaw.” For 10 points, what Soviet leader gave the “Secret Speech” and succeeded Joseph Stalin? ■END■ (10[1])

ANSWER: Nikita Khrushchev [or Nikita Sergeyevich Khrushchev]
<Southampton A, European History>
= Average correct buzz position

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