Soviet policy

Definition

Soviet policy refers to the various strategies, doctrines, and decisions made by the Soviet government that shaped its domestic and foreign relations throughout the 20th century. This policy evolved significantly from the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917 to the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, impacting global conflicts and influencing ideological movements worldwide.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Soviet policy was characterized by its commitment to Marxist-Leninist principles, emphasizing state control over all aspects of life, including the economy, culture, and education.
2. During the Cold War, Soviet foreign policy focused on spreading communism globally, leading to involvement in various conflicts such as the Korean War and Vietnam War.
3. The implementation of policies like collectivization in agriculture resulted in widespread famine and significant changes in the social fabric of Soviet society.
4. Under Gorbachev's leadership in the 1980s, Soviet policy shifted toward more openness and reform, attempting to address economic stagnation and political unrest.
5. The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 was a direct result of failed policies and internal dissent, leading to the emergence of independent republics and significant geopolitical shifts.

Review Questions

• How did Soviet policy evolve from its inception after the Bolshevik Revolution to its later years under Gorbachev?
  • Soviet policy began with a strict adherence to Marxist-Leninist ideologies that emphasized state control over all sectors. Over time, especially under Gorbachev, this policy transformed as leaders recognized the need for reform. Gorbachev introduced glasnost and perestroika to promote openness and restructure the economy, moving away from strict authoritarian control. This evolution reflected both internal pressures for change and external challenges during the Cold War.
• In what ways did Soviet foreign policy during the Cold War influence global conflicts?
  • Soviet foreign policy during the Cold War was focused on promoting communism globally, which led to direct involvement in various conflicts. The USSR supported communist regimes in countries like Cuba, Vietnam, and Afghanistan, providing military aid and training. This involvement often escalated tensions with Western powers, particularly the United States, leading to proxy wars and contributing to a global environment marked by distrust and ideological confrontation.
• Evaluate the impact of Soviet policies on both domestic conditions within the USSR and international relations in the late 20th century.
  • Soviet policies had profound effects both domestically and internationally. Domestically, policies like collectivization resulted in economic hardships, famine, and social unrest among citizens. These internal struggles were exacerbated by Gorbachev's attempts at reform, which ultimately failed to stabilize the economy or appease public discontent. Internationally, as Soviet influence waned towards the end of the Cold War due to these domestic issues, it led to a significant geopolitical shift as former Soviet republics sought independence, fundamentally altering the landscape of global politics.

Related terms

Communism: A political and economic ideology advocating for a classless system in which the means of production are owned communally and private property is abolished.

Gorbachev's Reforms: A series of policies introduced by Mikhail Gorbachev in the 1980s aimed at revitalizing the Soviet economy through transparency (glasnost) and restructuring (perestroika).

Cold War: A prolonged period of political tension and military rivalry between the Soviet Union and Western powers, particularly the United States, following World War II.