the nature of Soviet foreign policy 1917–1941

Question 1

Context

Answer 1

Foreign policy or foreign relations refers to how a government deals with other countries. Foreign policy includes such matters as trade and defence.
Lenin predicted a constant state of war between the Soviet Union and capitalist countries
Bolsheviks established the Comintern in 1919. Purpose was to assist communist revolutionaries in various countries, internationally established to pursue permanent revolution
Sovnarkom (with Commissar of Foreign Affairs) concerns itself with economic stability and self preservation
‘Permanent Revolution’ vs ‘Socialism in one country’ - ideological vs pragmatic pursuit

Question 2

Soviet policy from 1917-1921

Answer 2

Aim: Foreign policy action during this time was directed towards the survival of the Bolshevik regime

Nature: Treaty of Brest Litovsk, Civil War, Surrounded by capitalist countries

Effectiveness: Bolshevik victory in civil war, however world revolution would not be possible

Question 3

Soviet Policy 1920s

Answer 3

Aim: Normalise foreign relations with immediate neighbours

Nature: Friendship treaties, commercial agreements and diplomatic relations

Effectiveness: Russia had relations with all great powers but the US and was attending League of Nation conferences.

Question 4

Soviet Policy 1940s

Answer 4

Aim: Ambiguity reappeared, depression experienced by Western Nations

Nature: Changed from early 1930s to late due to Nazi expansionism in Europe. Mass drive towards industrialization.

Effectiveness: The Nazi-Soviet Non-Aggression Pact
Germany invaded Russia on 22 June 1941 in Operation Barbarossa