Revolution in Russia US History

Russian Revolution Russia has been a country accustomed to autocratic rule. From the days of Ivan the Terrible to those of Peter to Nicholas II, the Czars have made all decisions—the Russians have never known what it is to participate--to have a voice-- in their government.

Russian Revolution In the end, revolution has percolated there (just under the seemingly untroubled surface) since history can recall. Involvement in WWI, however, was more than most could take. US History

Russian Revolution Resources were strained, the transportation system collapsed and factories could not turn out the necessary goods. US History

Russian Revolution The Czarina—Alexandra—a German princess, who was much distrusted was left in power as Nicholas II headed for the front. US History

Czar Nicholas II US History

Russian Revolution Food was scarce. People were hungry, cold and left to watch as their sons, brothers, fathers, and friends die in astounding numbers. US History

Russian Revolution March, The monarchy collapses. The Czar is forced to abdicate the throne and does so—not only for himself but for his son, as well. US History

Russian Revolution Politicians set up a Provisional Government that went to work on creating a constitution for a new Russian Republic. US History

Russian Revolution They continue playing a role in WWI—a decision that would prove unwise. Russians were fed up with the War. US History

Russian Revolution November, 1917: The Bolsheviks—a radical, Socialist group, under the leadership of Vladimir Lenin, Leon Trotsky, and Josif Stalin. US History

US History

Russian Revolution Lenin and his guys—the Bolsheviks—take over with the help of the Russian Navy and the Battleship Aurora. US History

Russian Revolution Throughout the land, millions thought that they had at last gained control over their own lives. In fact, the Bolsheviks— renamed Communists—would soon become their new masters. US History

Russian Revolution From Lenin to Stalin --A. Building the Comm. Sov. Union B. Stalin’s 5 year plans US History

Russian Revolution Place your outline of Section II (Ch.15) onto page 7 of your project. US History

Russian Revolution Life in a Totalitarian State: ---In this form of government, a one-party dictatorship attempts to regulate every aspect of the lives of its citizens. US History

Russian Revolution b. People bombarded by propaganda. Radios and loudspeakers blared relentlessly into schools and factories. Communist successes and the evils of Capitalism always a main topic. US History

Russian Revolution a. To accomplish the goal of control, Stalin’s communist party used secret police, censorship, violent purges, and terror. US History

Russian Revolution c. In accordance with the ideas of Karl Marx, atheism (the belief that there is no God) became the official state policy. US History

Russian Revolution Changes in society: At the head of society was the Communist party. Party elite enjoyed luxuries and benefits denied to most. They had the best apartments and vacation homes while most were crammed into communal housing where whole families would live in 1 bedroom of a two or three- bedroom apartment—other families occupying the other rooms. ----Education-free!! ----Equality for women US History

Russian Revolution The Arts: Socialist realism: Stalin forced artists and writers to conform to a style that would boost socialism by showing Soviet life n a positive light Bottom line: promote hope in a communist future! US History

Russian Revolution GOVERNMENT CENSORSHIP. Artists and writers who did not tow the party line faced gov. persecution, could not get materials, work space, or jobs. US History

Russian Revolution Osip Mandelstam Boris Pasternak Anna Akhmatova: “For seventeen long months my pleas, My cries have called you home. I’ve begged the hangman on my knees, My son, my dread, my own. My mind’s mixed up for good, And I’m no longer even clear Who’s man, who’s beast, nor how much time Before the end draws near.” Requiem US History