The Impact of Lenin’s Decisions on Russia

and spent October 23rd persuading them to take control. Eventually, they yielded and on November 7th, 1917, the Bolsheviks successfully took over Russia. As the new ruler, Lenin introduced communism and steered the country towards prosperity until his death in 1924.

During the March Revolution, Lenin, leader of the Bolsheviks and residing in Switzerland at the time, expressed his intention to launch a new revolution in Russia aiming to establish a distinct government. On April 16, 1917, upon his arrival in Petrograd, Lenin delivered a speech to the Bolsheviks outlining several demands. These included an immediate cessation of war with Germany, the redistribution of all land among peasants, nationalization of banks, renaming the Bolsheviks as Communists, withholding support from the Provisional Government and transferring full power to the Soviets.

In 1918, Lenin sent Trotsky to meet with the Germans for peace treaty negotiations. It was crucial for Lenin to keep his promise of ending the war with Germany in order to maintain support. The outcome of these negotiations was the harsh Brest-Litvosk treaty, which occurred in March 1918. This treaty forced Russia to give up all its Western territories, including a population of sixty-two million people, farmland, railways, iron ore, and coal. Furthermore, Russia had to pay Germany a fine of 300 million gold roubles.

After making peace with Germany, Russia found itself caught up in a civil war. The Bolsheviks, who held sway over a small section of Russia, became the target of their adversaries who were determined to oust them from power. Thus began a brutal civil war that would fracture the nation deeply. Three main factions fought in this conflict: The Reds, comprised of the

Bolsheviks or communists; The Whites, made up of opponents to the Bolsheviks including tsarists, nobles, middle-class constitutional democrats, and Socialist Revolutionaries; and The Greens, which consisted of independent groups such as nationalists, peasants, or bandits roaming across Russia during this period. Throughout the course of the civil war, the Bolsheviks implemented strict measures to organize industry and food supplies within their controlled territories. They had two primary aims: ensuring provision for both food and weaponry for the Red Army and introducing War Communism—an innovative form of communism.

War Communism consisted of five aspects. The first aspect involved the nationalization of factories with more than ten workers, who were then instructed on what to produce.

2. The government exercised complete control over workers in factories, enforcing strict discipline and punishment. Unemployed individuals were compelled to join 'Labour armies'.

3. Private trading was forbidden, and peasants were obligated to sell their extra food to the government, with no permission for profit-making transactions.

The exchange of money was abolished, and instead individuals were obligated to participate in bartering.

Food was restricted to a limited amount.

In March 1921, following a naval military revolt, Lenin recognized the necessity for a shift in policy. As a result, War Communism was discarded in favor of the introduction of the New Economic Policy (NEP). The NEP allowed peasants to once again sell their surplus food for profit.

If peasants were able to increase their food production, they would have to pay less tax.

Owners of factories with fewer than twenty workers would have their factories returned to them.

4. The New Economic Policy (NEP) sparked debate among Bolshevik leaders as it was seen by many as a move towards

capitalism, contrary to Lenin's initial policy. Nonetheless, Lenin defended the NEP, stating that taking a step back would ultimately result in two steps forward towards communism. As of 1925, the NEP began showing promising outcomes such as the recovery of food production to pre-Great War levels and notable growth in industrial output.

Despite its four main points, the April Theses had a broad and positive impact on the population, garnering support for the Bolsheviks as each point resonated with everyone's desires.

Before 1861, the majority of peasants in Russia were serfs, owned by their masters. However, they were granted their freedom and the opportunity to own land in 1861. The government provided loans for them to purchase land, which they had to repay over a long period of time. Sadly, the land they received was often not enough for survival and repaying the loans. By 1900, this problem worsened due to rapid population growth and wealthy nobles owning a significant amount of land.

When Lenin took power, a decree was issued in November that seized all land from the Tsar and old landlords. The land was given to the peasants, who formed committees to divide it fairly. This finally gave the peasants enough land for farming, leading to higher crop yields and surplus food for profitable sale.

Upon the conclusion of the War Dictatorship in 1918, peasants experienced a sense of relief. The majority of them had been compelled to participate in the war, which resulted in leaving their families and farms behind. As soon as Lenin's policy of allocating all land to the peasants became known, they swiftly returned home from the warfront and began claiming their portion

of the land.

During the period from 1918 to 1921, Lenin implemented war communism, which involved the Cheka raiding the farms of peasants to confiscate surplus food and supply it to the Red Army. Lenin faced a dire need for food to feed the workers, but since the peasants refused to sell their grain willingly, it had to be acquired through force. Severe punishments were imposed on those who hoarded supplies. The peasants resisted this approach, leading to a bitter struggle. Many of them reduced their grain production as they saw no value in producing food that would only be taken away from them. Consequently, war communism fueled animosity towards the Bolsheviks among the peasants.

When Lenin introduced the NEP in 1922, it aimed to address the failings of war communism by allowing peasants to sell their surplus food and keep the profits, rather than having their food seized by the government. This resulted in an increase in grain production from 37.6 million tonnes to 73.3 million tonnes (S.H.P p68 Source 6), which helped lift peasants out of poverty. However, the NEP had its limitations. Peasants found that prices for manufactured goods were high and were reluctant to sell their grain for money that could not buy much. While some peasants became wealthy by acquiring land and animals, many remained poor and continued to use outdated farming methods. The April Theses brought relief to factory workers, as an end to the war meant factories would reopen and they could return to work. During the war with Germany, scarcity of coal and industrial materials led to factory closures and unemployment among workers. The army's transportation needs left cities

without means to bring in raw materials, exacerbating both unemployment and poverty.Once the war comes to an end, raw materials can once again be transported to cities and factory workers can resume their jobs. This would alleviate unemployment and provide workers with wages to purchase goods, despite the ongoing rise in prices. In 1918, the war finally concluded, allowing factory workers to be released from their war duties and return to their previous employment. However, the implementation of war communism in cities led to state control over industries and dictation of production for factories. Although the factories were initially managed by workers' committees in 1917, their performance was unsatisfactory. Consequently, Lenin introduced new managers and imposed strict discipline on all factory workers, resulting in a harder quality of life for them. The new regulations increased pressure on the workers and contributed to their resentment towards Lenin and the Bolsheviks, extending to all working classes.

In 1922, War communism was finally lifted, and the smaller factories were returned to their former owners. They were granted permission to sell their goods and generate profits. Consequently, the factories were motivated to increase production and profitability, leading to a significant rise in industrial output. Coal production soared from 9 million tonnes to 35 million tonnes, steel production increased from 0.2 million tonnes to 4 million tonnes, and cloth production escalated from 105 million tonnes to 1688 million tonnes (S.H.P p68 Source 6). The workers in these factories also reaped the benefits of this production boom, as they received higher wages and additional perks. The monthly wage of workers rose from 10.2 roubles to 25.2 roubles on average (S.H.P p68 source

6).

Both the middle class and factory workers experienced positive effects from the end of the war. The middle class, which included bankers, merchants, and wealthy capitalists who owned industrial works, greatly benefited. The conclusion of the war against Germany allowed their businesses to resume normal operations and obtain essential raw materials for their factories. Throughout the war, many of their factories and businesses had to close down as their workers joined the war effort. Thankfully, with the war now over, these workers were able to return to their jobs.

The aforementioned circumstances became feasible upon the conclusion of the war in 1918. Despite not being impoverished, the middle class experienced the effects of market inflation. The scarcity of factory goods resulted in a continuous rise in prices, making it financially burdensome for the middle class to purchase essential items. The end of the war offered hope for a stabilizing situation and a return to normal prices.

In 1918, the situation that had previously occurred resurfaced due to the implementation of war communism. Although food was rationed, individuals could only obtain a ration card if they were employed. There were instances where the bread ration reached as low as 200 grams per day. Another method of acquiring food was through the unlawful Black Market. Money essentially lost its value, leading people to frequently exchange their possessions for sustenance or goods. The middle class suffered significant losses during this period, enduring a scarcity of food merely sufficient for daily survival.

After the end of war communism in 1922, the middle classes regained the ability to purchase food and other items using money. The emergence of Nepmen, also known as capitalists,

brought an influx of food and goods back into the market, ensuring availability for all. This renewed supply led to the creation of new shops and restaurants, benefiting the middle class. Moreover, those middle-class individuals who owned factories or ran industries were able to sustain and expand their businesses, generating profits and increasing the supply of goods in the market.

While the April Theses received mixed reactions, it was particularly the nobles and the Royal family who reacted negatively. They had their land confiscated and given to the peasants, despite owning large estates and retaining a significant portion of land even after 1861. The peasants were obligated to work on these estates for additional income. Although comprising just over one percent of the population, the nobles possessed almost a quarter of all land. However, under the Bolshevik Government's new policy of equality, titles and class distinctions were abolished, treating everyone as comrades. This drastic change did not sit well with the nobility accustomed to their privileged treatment based on social status.

The cessation of World War I in 1918 indirectly impacted the nobility as peasants flocked to claim their share of promised land in rural areas—land owned by the nobles themselves. Consequently, without any compensation, they lost their valuable assets to the peasants. Furthermore, both wealthy individuals and nobles suffered from inflation during this period of communism.

The text emphasizes how former rich individuals have faced a downfall and are now resorting to selling off their remaining possessions. Once regarded as exceptionally affluent and indulged members of society, they have adjusted their expectations and settled for basic sustenance instead.
The text discusses the situation where a former owner of

a palace in Moscow is now forced to live in the bathroom of their old home. This scenario is juxtaposed with the introduction of the New Economic Policy (NEP) in 1922, which greatly benefited the nobility during Bolshevik rule. The NEP allowed for the rise of capitalists known as "Nepmen," who established new factories and businesses in Russia. As a result, the wealthy and nobility were given an opportunity to invest and regain wealth that had been lost during the war. They eagerly seized this chance to accumulate substantial fortunes for themselves.

The April Theses had a significant positive impact on the Russian economy and agriculture. By ending the war, raw materials and supplies could be transported to cities, allowing factories to reopen and war front employees to return. Land was also distributed among peasants, providing them with more farming opportunities and modern techniques for food production. This increase in agricultural output ensured sufficient food for peasants, who could then sell surplus for profit and improve their financial situation. Consequently, peasant contentment grew along with their support for the Bolsheviks, which was crucial as they accounted for over three-quarters of the population.

Following the end of the war in 1918, there was an opportunity for Russia's economy and agriculture to recover from the devastating impacts they had endured. The rouble had significantly depreciated, causing prices in the market to skyrocket. Additionally, factories had closed down due to the war, leading to a complete halt in goods exports. Furthermore, with peasants absent from their land, crop yields were reduced and there was a serious risk of food shortage. It was imperative that urgent and substantial changes be implemented

promptly to restore normalcy before it became too late for Russia.

In 1922, Lenin introduced the NEP to revive Russia's economy. The implementation of capitalist principles motivated both the economy and agriculture, resulting in significant profits. Factory owners encouraged increased output from workers, while peasants worked hard to produce surplus crops for sale. By 1926, the economy had recovered to pre-1914 levels, requiring substantial investments to transform the Soviet Union into an industrialized nation. The progress in farming was impressive as well, with a sharp increase in food and goods supply within a year, leading to decreased prices. Overall, the NEP successfully revived Russian agriculture and the economy.

The April Theses rejected any support for the Provisional Government and called for all power to be given to the Soviets. This dealt a significant blow to the already criticized Provisional Government. Despite fears of consequences from Germany and a desire to maintain support from allies, the Provisional Government chose to continue the war. However, Russia's performance in the war continued to deteriorate, leading to an increasing number of deserting soldiers. With depleted resources and shortages of food and fuel, frustration grew among the people who desperately wanted an end to the ongoing war. Furthermore, the Provisional Government failed to address land ownership issues with peasants, leaving it up to the properly elected government of Russia. The lack of support from peasants only intensified when the April Theses declared no cooperation with them, undermining their authority.

The peace treaty signed in March 1918 between Russia and Germany showcased Lenin's commitment to fulfilling his promises outlined in the April Thesis, generating widespread support for him and his Government among all

social classes. The conclusion of the war brought immense relief to the public.

However, Lenin's support did not last long during the onset of the Civil war in 1918. The policy of war communism, introduced by Lenin at this time, caused crisis throughout the region. Cities were in turmoil, agriculture had collapsed, and the economy was deteriorating. The Russian population was dissatisfied with the situation and held Lenin responsible for their suffering. Consequently, a group called the 'Workers' Opposition' emerged, advocating for higher wages, improved conditions, increased food supply, and worker's control over industry. The situation reached its climax in March 1921 when sailors stationed at the Kronstadt naval base revolted due to the dire living conditions under Communist rule. These sailors had formerly been staunch supporters of the Bolsheviks in 1917, but now they were opposing them.

During the civil war period, the sailors' uprising proved to be a pivotal moment that startled the Government. In response, Lenin found it necessary to enhance Russia's economic situation and introduced the NEP in 1921 as a potential solution to the country's problems. Although some Communists were dissatisfied and viewed this as a step back towards capitalism, Lenin managed to persuade the Party to temporarily accept the NEP. The majority recognized the importance of these measures in revitalizing the industry and increasing food production.

Although the April Theses did not mention civil rights, there was still a slight increase in civil freedom and liberties under the Bolshevik rule. During the Tsar's regime, opposition was not tolerated, and those who criticized the Government were dealt with by the secret police, known as the Okhrana. The Okhrana had spies and agents everywhere,

leading dissidents to be imprisoned or exiled to Siberia. However, when the Bolsheviks took control, there was no secret police initially, allowing some level of civil rights for the public. Unfortunately, this did not last long as the Bolsheviks introduced their own, even harsher, form of secret police.

Civil liberties in Russia remained unchanged and did not improve after the war ended in 1918. The Sovnakom, in their initial months of power, made decisions that denied the public certain civil rights. This included the prohibition of non-Bolshevik newspapers and political parties, indicating a continued absence of rights for the public. Consequently, individuals were still unable to question the actions of the Bolsheviks or exercise freedom of speech to express their opinions.

War communism, which started in Russia in 1918, further worsened the civil liberties of the population. The public was not allowed to question Lenin's decision on war communism, and if they dared to criticize the terrible conditions, the secret police would either execute them or exile them. The government prohibited individuals from selling their possessions in an attempt to improve their situation. Additionally, factories were taken over by the government, and workers faced pressure to increase production. Strict discipline was enforced, making the working conditions resemble those of a prison camp. The public was subjected to inhumane living conditions without consent and oppressed by the government, following Lenin's orders. The implementation of war communism marked the beginning of Lenin's tyrannical rule and dictatorship.

In 1922, the end of war communism and the introduction of the NEP led to a slight enhancement in civil liberties. Certain factories were returned to their owners' control and the use of money

was once again allowed. Nevertheless, at this point in time, people did not fully comprehend Lenin's regime and how it could be just as oppressive, if not more so, than the Tsar's rule. It was acknowledged that even with the conclusion of war communism, civil rights would still be denied.

The November 1917 Revolution witnessed a remarkable absence of casualties, as the Bolsheviks successfully assumed control of Russian cities without any bloodshed. In the early hours of 7th November, the Red Guards tactfully seized command over various strategic locations such as bridges, telegram offices, railway stations, and power stations. When the Red Guards stormed the Winter Palace, they encountered minimal opposition, resulting in the surrender of all military cadets and soldiers from the Women's Death Battalion without resistance.

The war's conclusion signaled an end to soldier fatalities, but the devastation had already taken its toll. Countless soldiers lost their lives, leaving behind grieving widows and orphaned children. As a result, many of these individuals also faced homelessness and the hardships of poverty.

One of the most significant human tragedies in Russian history was caused by War communism. The decline in grain harvests, as a result of agricultural collapse and war-related grain requisitioning, led to a lack of motivation among peasants to grow food. Additionally, a drought in 1921 further reduced grain production, leading to a devastating famine that claimed the lives of up to five million people. Consequently, an extensive international aid effort had to be launched.

The implementation of the NEP in 1922 put an end to these terrible events and served as an emergency solution for the crisis in Russia. Under this policy, peasants were given

the opportunity to sell their excess grain for profit, leading to increased grain production and sufficient food supply for Russian cities. While some peasants prospered by acquiring land and livestock, others remained impoverished and stuck with outdated farming methods.

Religious practices faced severe restrictions in Russia. Churches were confiscated by the state between November and December 1917. The Bolsheviks rejected religion altogether and dismantled all religious institutions with the aim of establishing a religion-free Russia. Despite this, Jews remained a minority in the region and occasionally faced attacks from troops sent by the Tsar; there was no change in this situation after the revolution. The attack on the Winter Palace captivated painters and filmmakers, resulting in numerous artistic interpretations and films depicting this assault.

Lenin passed away in January 1924, at 53 years old, prompting a large gathering for his funeral to pay tribute to the leader who guided Russia to victory. His significant achievements further established him as one of history's most remarkable rulers. Additionally, his death sparked discussions on his successor, with Stalin and Trotsky emerging as potential candidates. In the end, Stalin emerged triumphant and assumed Lenin's role as the new leader.

Lenin's establishment of a single party allowed him to exercise unrestricted power over Russia, without facing any challenge or inquiry for his actions. He also initiated the use of terror and violence to suppress opposition and criticism during his time, through entities like the Cheka and the Red Terror. Though Lenin did not heavily rely on these methods, they formed the groundwork for Stalin to utilize fear and control against his opponents and the general populace. Despite contributing to modernizing Russia, Lenin also

laid the foundation for Stalin's dictatorial regime. Stalin was inspired by Lenin's effective use of dictatorship to achieve his own goals, but he surpassed the boundaries of dictatorial rule. Moreover, Lenin's establishment of the world's first communist state resulted in negative consequences for Russia's international relations. Trade and alliances were severed due to widespread disapproval of Communism, effectively isolating and alienating Russia from other countries.

Despite the negative aspects of Lenin's rule, he is still considered a great ruler today, both in Russia and globally, irrespective of people's views on communism. Lenin freed the Russian populace from the oppressive regime of the Tsar and devoted his life to serving his people and progressing his nation. He improved circumstances for peasants by providing them with land for farming and enhanced working conditions for laborers, including additional job perks like insurance. Although Lenin encountered numerous obstacles and challenges in his pursuit of objectives, both he and the Russian people persisted, combining effective leadership with hard work to bring about lasting change in Russia.