Chapter 19

Question 1

Briefly explain the impact of Stalinism on the Church

Answer 1

Marx described religion as the ‘Opium of the people’ and claimed it was used by the upper class to legitimise exploitation.
- Under Lenin, laws became more secularised, but allowed for freedom of worship
- Under Stalin, worship was restricted and Churches were destroyed, Sharia law was abolished, or pilgrimages to Mecca were banned

Question 2

Briefly explain the impact of Stalinism on the women

Answer 2

Although sex discrimination became illegal in early 20’s, Stalin had to revert to traditionality in 36’, such as promoting family, due to falling population
- Abortions were illegal
- Divorces were harder

Question 3

Briefly explain the impact of Stalinism on the education

Answer 3

Free education was offered at all levels, due to being seen as the building blocks of society.
- Emphasis was put on higher training specialists who could advance industrialisation
- Teachers were given higher status, similar to party officials
- before 1917, 65% of the population were literate, by 41, 94% were

Question 4

Name 2 similarities between Stalin and Lenin

Answer 4

• Cheka and the NKVD
• Terror (but Stalin was more widespread)
• Collectivisation of agriculture

Question 5

Name 2 differences between Stalin and Lenin

Answer 5

• Lenin allowed for freeodm of art expression/ Stalin did not
• Lenin had a mixed economy/ Stalin focused on heavy industry
• Lenin allowed for some free market/ Stalin did not
• Old bolsheviks had authority/ Stalin disposed of most of them