Government and control in wartime (6) Flashcards
What did the Civil War increase?
Increased the centralisation of power and greater party control of the government.
What had the Bolsheviks originally formed as a group of?
“disciplined revolutionaries” spearheading a revolution, and Lenin and Trotsky continued to maintain this approach.
When was centralisation of power established?
Early on in the Civil War when Moscow replaced Petrograd as Russia’s capital.
Why was the capital converted to Moscow?
Because Petrograd was closer to Russia’s western frontier and more vulnerable to attack than Moscow.
What happened in Moscow?
A military style of government evolved with constant “battles” and “campaigns” on “fronts”.
How many party members fought for the Red Army in the Civil War?
Over half a million Party members, becoming used to obeying orders and acting with whatever force was deemed necessary.
What was the driving force behind the government?
The Bolshevik/Communist Party, the structure appeared quite democratic.
What was the Bolshevik/Communist Party based on?
Annual Congress- elected by the mass membership but actual policies and decisions were shaped by the Party’s Central Committee.
What body was created in 1919?
The Politburo.
Who were the first members of the Politburo?
Lenin, Trotsky, and Stalin.
Why was the Politburo assumed increasing control of state affairs?
Because the Politburo members were also key government officials.
What met gradually less frequently during the 1920’s?
The Sovnarkom.
What was brought in?
Central controls to manage the economy and deal with food shortages
Between 1918 and 1921 what was the impact of fighting a Civil War?
The communist sate was associated more firmly with repression and terror.
