The Russian Revolution: Lenin and Stalin

Relevance of the Theme

The Russian Revolution of 1917 was an event of enormous historical magnitude. This is a crucial turning point that marks the transition from Imperial Russia to the Soviet Union, a country that would dominate global geopolitics for much of the 20th century. Studying this revolution is fundamental to understanding the origins and developments of Soviet socialism, as well as its global implications. The figures of Lenin and Stalin, central leaders of this movement, are pillars in this narrative. Understanding their political strategies and actions in power is essential for a comprehensive understanding of 20th-century history.

Contextualization

This theme is part of the broader scenario of studying 20th-century history. After addressing World War I, it is essential to understand the subtleties of the civil conflict that erupted in Russia in 1917. The Russian Revolution was a watershed, transforming the country into a socialist power. Studying Lenin and Stalin provides an in-depth view of the revolutionary events and their direct and indirect consequences. By understanding the ideologies, strategies, and policies of these leaders, a window opens to understanding what would become the Cold War and the bipolarization of the world. Therefore, the analysis of Lenin and Stalin is a crucial component in the narrative of global political and social evolution.

Theoretical Development

• Lenin, the father of the revolution: Leading the Bolshevik Party, Lenin spearheaded the October Revolution of 1917, an armed uprising that overthrew the Russian provisional government. Lenin advocated for immediate revolution, in contrast to the Mensheviks, who believed in a stage of democratic-bourgeois government before socialism. His role in radicalizing the movement and founding the Soviet Union is central to understanding the Russian Revolution.

• Stalin's strategy: Stalin, initially a member of the Bolshevik Party's council and supporter of Lenin, led the Soviet Union from 1924 until his death in 1953. He is known for the policy of "socialism in one country," which sought to strengthen socialism in the USSR before promoting it internationally. Stalin also initiated forced collectivization and industrialization, brutal processes that transformed the country into a military and industrial superpower.

• Leninist-Stalinist period: The period between 1917 and 1953 is marked by the fusion of Lenin and Stalin's ideas, with a gradual transition from Leninist leadership to Stalinism. This phase is characterized by an intense process of social, economic, and political transformation that had lasting and profound consequences in Russia and the world.

• Legacy and criticisms: The legacy of Lenin and Stalin is complex and controversial. Lenin is often celebrated as a revolutionary leader and Marxist theorist, while Stalin is remembered for his central role in the Russian victory in World War II and for transforming the USSR into a superpower. However, both are also criticized for their authoritarian actions and human rights violations.

Detailed Summary

Relevant Points

• October Revolution: This was the final stage of the Russian Revolution, led by Lenin and the Bolshevik Party. The revolution, which took place on November 7, 1917 (Gregorian calendar), overthrew the Russian Provisional Government and brought the Bolsheviks to power. Lenin, with his strategy of immediate revolution, was fundamental to the takeover.

• Leninist Ideology: Lenin advocated the need for an elite revolutionary party, made up of highly disciplined and politically conscious militants, to lead the working class in the revolution. This ideology is known as Leninism, an interpretation of Marxism adapted to the conditions of Russia.

• Stalin and the Policy of "Socialism in one country": Stalin, initially a follower of Lenin, developed the policy of "Socialism in one country," which sought to build socialism in the USSR before promoting it internationally. This policy is criticized by some as a deviation from the proletarian internationalism defended by Lenin and Marx.

• Forced collectivization and industrialization: Under Stalin's command, the USSR underwent an intense process of forced collectivization and industrialization. Although they transformed Russia into a superpower, these processes also resulted in millions of deaths and widespread suffering.

Conclusions

• Lenin's leadership was crucial for the Bolsheviks' victory in the Russian Revolution. His leadership style and ideas shaped the foundation of the Soviet Union.

• Stalin, despite initially supporting Lenin, implemented policies that diverged from his predecessor's, leading the USSR down a different path after Lenin's death.

• The Leninist-Stalinist period is marked by an intense process of transformation in Russia, with lasting and profound consequences.

Exercises

1. Describe the October Revolution of 1917 and explain Lenin's role in its leadership.

2. Analyze the main differences between Leninist ideology and Stalin's policy of "Socialism in one country."

3. Make a critical assessment of the Leninist-Stalinist period in terms of the main advances and setbacks for the USSR and the Russian population.