Tsarist Russia to Stalin: A Transformation

From Tsarist Russia to the Soviet Union

The Decline of Absolutism and the Rise of Marxism

In the nineteenth century, Tsarist Russia was dominated by absolutism and remained a predominantly agricultural country. However, starting in 1870, significant industries began to develop in major cities. It was here that the ideas of Marxism took root, and the Social Democratic Party gained considerable strength. The Tsarist system resisted any attempts at change and reform. Nicholas II only granted a parliament after the revolution of 1905.

The 1917 Revolutions and the Rise of the Bolsheviks

The catastrophe of the Russian army in World War I led to the revolution of February 1917. Russia became a republic, and a provisional government was formed. However, the new government proved weak and unable to provide the country with what it desperately wanted: peace and work. The Bolsheviks, led by Lenin, seized this opportunity. They foresaw a time of social revolution and, in October 1917, took power, establishing the Republic of Soviets.

Lenin's Rule and the New Economic Policy (NEP)

The first election, however, resulted in a defeat for the Bolsheviks. Consequently, Lenin dissolved the Constituent Assembly and imposed a dictatorship. The Bolsheviks governed the country alone: the war ended with the peace of Brest-Litovsk, and exceptional measures were implemented in the economic and political spheres. Between 1918 and 1920, the country was ravaged by a civil war, fueled by foreign powers. The Bolsheviks emerged victorious but faced a dire economic and social situation. In response, Lenin initiated a New Economic Policy (NEP), which partially reintroduced free markets and private property.

Stalin's Ascendancy and the Era of Totalitarianism

The death of Lenin in 1924 triggered a power struggle. Stalin, who advocated for building socialism in one country, faced off against Trotsky, who believed in spreading socialism beyond the Soviet Union and creating a permanent revolution. Stalin ultimately prevailed and established a personal dictatorship. He eliminated all opponents through bloody purges. Stalin imposed great sacrifices on the people to support the process of industrialization.

The Soviet Union Under Stalin

By the late 1930s, the Soviet Union had become a major economic and military power. However, Stalin's Russia was a country devoid of freedom. The party controlled every aspect of society and the lives of its citizens. All opposition was banned, and a personality cult around Stalin was fostered.