Transformation of the Soviet Union (1985–1991) Notes

The Russian Revolution and the Birth of the Soviet Union

1. The Russian Revolution of 1917
   1. February Revolution - Led to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II and the end of centuries of Romanov rule.
   2. Driven by widespread discontent with autocratic rule, poor economic conditions, and the strains of World War I.
2. October Revolution - Led by the Bolshevik Party under Vladimir Lenin.
   1. Overthrew the Provisional Government.
   2. The Bolsheviks promised "peace, land, and bread," appealing to war-weary soldiers, peasants, and workers.

1. Establishment of the Soviet State
   1. Civil War (1917-1922) - The Bolsheviks (Reds) fought against the anti-Bolshevik forces (Whites).
   2. War Communism - Involved the nationalization of industry and the requisitioning of agricultural produce to support the war effort.
   3. New Economic Policy (NEP) - Introduced by Lenin in 1921 to revitalize the economy. Allowed some private enterprise and small-scale private businesses.

Stalin's Era and the Transformation of Soviet Society

1. Stalin's Rise to Power
   1. Power Struggle: After Lenin's death in 1924, a power struggle ensued between Stalin and his rivals, most notably Leon Trotsky. Stalin's political maneuvering and ability to consolidate power led to his leadership.
2. Collectivization and Industrialization
   1. Collectivization - Aimed to consolidate individual land and labor into collective farms. Intended to increase agricultural productivity and produce grain surpluses for export.
3. Five-Year Plans
   1. Launched to rapidly industrialize the Soviet Union.
   2. Focused on heavy industry and infrastructure.
   3. Transformed the Soviet economy but often at the cost of consumer goods and living standards.