Russian Revolution and Stalinist Era: Key Events and Impacts

The Russian Revolution: A Historical Overview

In the early twentieth century, Russia was ruled by Tsar Nicholas II, an autocrat. The population consisted of landless peasants, industrial workers living in squalor, and aristocrats who owned the land and industries. In 1905, unrest forced the Tsar to concede some power to the Duma and implement social and political reforms. However, by 1915, unease grew due to Russia’s involvement in World War I.

The February Revolution (1917)

By February 1917, Russia demonstrated disorganization in its military, political, and economic affairs. This was due to a decline in agricultural production and the demotivation of peasants involved in the war, leading to famine. Revolutionary movements led to Nicholas II’s abdication, leaving power to a provisional government.

The Provisional Government and the Soviets

The interim government had two branches: the Kerensky provisional government, led and supported by the Mensheviks, and the Soviets, managed by the Bolsheviks, whose leader was Lenin. Lenin formed a new government, signed a peace treaty with Germany in 1918, and approved the expropriation of large agricultural properties and worker control of manufacturing.

These measures faced strong opposition, leading to a civil war. Lenin then introduced the New Economic Policy (NEP), which included some capitalist elements. However, this led to economic repercussions and social differences. The government opted for control of independent unions and formed the USSR, maintaining self-government under the Communist Party and the Supreme Soviet.

The Stalinist Era (1924-1953)

After Lenin’s death in 1924, a power struggle began between Trotsky and Stalin. Trotsky favored expanding the revolution, while Stalin aimed to consolidate communism within the USSR before exporting it. By 1927, Stalin had established a dictatorship. In 1936, a new constitution was introduced, legitimizing his dictatorship. Stalin imposed control over all aspects of society, including the central committee, and fostered a personality cult. He repressed dissent and targeted various nationalities.

The Five-Year Plans

First Five-Year Plan

The first plan aimed to improve production, develop heavy industry, and reorganize agriculture. Private land ownership was abolished, and collectivization began, taking two forms:

• Collective farms (kolkhozes): Mixed collective exploitations.
• State farms (sovkhozes): Agricultural industries managed by the state.

Second Five-Year Plan

The second plan aimed to raise the living standards of the Russian people, promote industrial housing, and increase the production of consumer goods.

Third Five-Year Plan

The third plan focused on the arms industry and electrical and chemical production. It was interrupted by Russia’s entry into World War II.

Impact of Industrialization

During the 1930s, the USSR transitioned from an agricultural country to an industrial power. While the vast western capitalist system experienced depression, unemployment, and social disorganization, the USSR saw significant industrial growth.