Tsarist Russia to Soviet Union: Key Events & Transformations

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Tsarist Russia and the Path to Revolution

In Tsarist Russia, the Tsar held absolute power. The Duma, a parliament, existed but could be dissolved at the Tsar's will.

1905: Russo-Japanese War and Bloody Sunday

The Russian army suffered defeat against Japanese troops. On January 9th, a peaceful demonstration at the Tsar's Winter Palace was violently suppressed, resulting in Bloody Sunday. Workers organized into soviets (popular assemblies). The October Manifesto was signed but later violated by the Tsar.

World War I and the Fall of the Tsar

Russia entered World War I in 1914 unprepared, leading to numerous defeats. In 1917, widespread demonstrations and a general strike forced the Tsar to abdicate, leading to a provisional government.

The Bolshevik Revolution

Bolshevik leader Lenin returned from exile, published his April Theses, and prepared for an insurrection. After a failed attempt in July, a successful coup took place on October 24, 1917. The new Bolshevik government signed a peace treaty, leading to a civil war between the Red Army (revolutionaries) and the White Army (anti-revolutionaries).

The Russian Civil War and War Communism

The civil war lasted from 1918 to 1921, with the Bolsheviks, led by Trotsky, emerging victorious. The government implemented war communism, Lenin established the dictatorship of the proletariat, and other parties were banned. These policies led to numerous revolts.

The New Economic Policy (NEP)

In 1921, the New Economic Policy (NEP) was introduced, allowing farmers to grow and sell freely, permitting free trade, and enabling small industries. This led to the emergence of a bourgeoisie.

Formation of the USSR

In 1922, the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) was created.

1923 Constitution

The 1923 Constitution established autonomous republics within the USSR. The Supreme Soviet, with its presidium, became the supreme legislative body.

The Third International

In 1919, Lenin created the Third International to promote communism worldwide.

The Rise of Stalin

Following Lenin's death in 1924, Stalin rose to power, advocating for "socialism in one country."

Stalin's Dictatorship

By 1929, Stalin established a dictatorship, consolidating power through the cult of personality, strengthening the Communist Party, purges, and full control over culture.

Gosplan and Collectivization

In 1927, Stalin created Gosplan, a central planning agency for the economy. The goal was to overcome economic backwardness and eliminate private property. Land was collectivized, leading to the creation of large cooperative farms (kolkhozes). Priority was given to heavy industry and energy, resulting in significant increases in coal and oil production. The first three five-year plans were largely successful.

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