Soviet communism

Definition

Soviet communism is a political and economic ideology that emerged in the Soviet Union, advocating for a classless society achieved through the abolition of private property and the establishment of collective ownership. Rooted in Marxist theory, it aimed to eliminate social hierarchies and promote equality among citizens, often enforced through authoritarian state control and centralized planning. This system profoundly influenced Europe during the interwar period, especially as it contrasted sharply with rising fascist movements and shaped geopolitical tensions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Soviet communism officially began after the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917, which overthrew the Provisional Government and established a socialist state.
2. Under Lenin's leadership, the New Economic Policy was introduced in 1921 as a pragmatic response to economic turmoil, allowing limited private ownership to revive the economy.
3. Stalin's rise to power marked a shift toward more extreme forms of collectivization and industrialization, culminating in widespread repression and purges of perceived enemies.
4. The Comintern (Communist International) was established in 1919 to promote worldwide communist revolution, influencing communist movements across Europe during the interwar period.
5. The ideological clash between Soviet communism and fascism would contribute to tensions leading up to World War II, as both ideologies sought to expand their influence across Europe.

Review Questions

• How did Soviet communism challenge traditional social structures in Europe during the interwar period?
  • Soviet communism aimed to dismantle traditional social hierarchies by promoting a classless society through collective ownership. This challenged existing social norms and structures rooted in capitalism, as it called for the redistribution of wealth and resources. The revolutionary ideals inspired various communist parties across Europe, fostering an environment of political radicalism that often clashed with conservative forces.
• Evaluate the impact of Stalin's policies on Soviet society and their implications for Europe during the interwar period.
  • Stalin's policies, including forced collectivization and rapid industrialization, had profound effects on Soviet society. While they aimed to transform the USSR into a major global power, they also resulted in significant human suffering, including famines and political purges. These brutal tactics heightened tensions between communist and fascist regimes across Europe, as both sought dominance in a politically unstable landscape.
• Assess how the establishment of Soviet communism influenced global political dynamics in the lead-up to World War II.
  • The establishment of Soviet communism created a stark ideological divide that shaped global politics before World War II. The USSR's support for communist movements abroad heightened fears among capitalist nations, leading to increased militarization and alliances against perceived threats. Additionally, as fascist regimes rose in reaction to communism, this polarization contributed to an environment ripe for conflict, ultimately culminating in World War II as nations grappled with competing ideologies.

Related terms

Marxism: A socio-political and economic theory created by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels that focuses on class struggle and the idea that capitalism will inevitably be replaced by socialism and ultimately communism.

New Economic Policy (NEP): A temporary economic policy introduced by Lenin in 1921, allowing some private enterprise and small-scale capitalism to stimulate the Soviet economy after the Russian Civil War.

Totalitarianism: A political system where the state recognizes no limits to its authority and seeks to regulate every aspect of public and private life, characteristic of Stalin's regime under Soviet communism.