4.1.8 Communism in the Soviet Union

Although the Communist Revolution began with the ideas of collective responsibility, cooperation, and equality for all, the Soviet Union soon deteriorated into a totalitarian state in which individuals had few rights and freedoms, especially under Lenin's successor.

Using the same techniques of dictatorship, Stalin consolidated total control over the Soviet Union. He implemented collectivized farms, nationalized industry, and was responsible for a series of Five-Year Plans that set ambitious targets for industrial and agricultural production.

Stalin's plans for industry and agriculture led to protests by many of the original communist founders of the USSR who felt his version of socialism was far removed from the vision they held. He used the state police increasingly to control the population. The Great Purge of the 1930s led to the arrest, execution, and/or imprisonment in forced labour camps of many senior party members. Forced labour camps were used for those who disagreed with Soviet policies.

 

Stalin came to power after Lenin became disabled by a stroke. He dismantled Lenin's New Economic Policy that had allowed for the ownership of private property and the profit motive. To achieve his objectives, he replaced Lenin's policies with the enforced collectivization of agriculture, the command economy, and a far more extensive use of state sanctioned force.

Deaths due directly to Stalin's policies are estimated in the millions, not including those who died from famine.  After Stalin's death, the communist party maintained control of almost all aspects of people's lives.

As you read, take notes on the following:

Review the difference between Marxism and Leninism and Stalinism - which took Marxist ideas and adapted them to Russian society. It is important to understand the difference between the theory of communism (Marxism) and the practice in certain societies.

Read

• The Whisperers: Private Life in Stalin's Russia by Orlando Figes
• The Kulak's Daughter by Gabrielle Goldstone