War Communism 1918 - 1921 Flashcards
What was War Communism?
Restrictive political and economic measures adopted during the first years of Communist Rule
When was War Communism introduced?
During the Civil War 1918 - 1921
Why was War Communism introduced?
Due to problems caused by the civil war.
Lenin judged that the White menace could only be met by intensification of authority in regions the Reds controlled.
To keep the towns and Red Army provided with food and weapons.
What were the main features of War Communism?
Grain Requisitioning Nationalisation of Industry Banning of Private Trade Labour Discipline Rationing
What was set up to establish the forcible requisitioning of grain as standard policy? When?
The Food-Supplies Dictatorship
May 1918
Why had Bolsheviks been sending units of Red Guards and soldiers into the countryside?
To find grain for hard-pressed cities
Who were Vesenkha and what did they do?
The Supreme Council of National Economy - administered all industry when it was brought under state control
Who were workers committees replaced by?
Single managers reporting to central authorities - this was the only way to stop the chaos
What happened as a result of all private trade and manufacturing being banned?
State trading organisation was chaotic.
The industry was not producing enough consumer goods.
Huge black market developed, without which people couldn’t survive.
What discipline was brought back to the workplace?
Fines for lateness + absenteeism.
Why were internal passports introduced?
To stop people fleeing to the countryside
What was brought back as part of labour discipline?
Piece-work rates.
Bonuses + work book needed to get rations.
What type of rationing system was introduced?
Class-based rationing system
Who was given priority with rations?
The labour force and Red Army
Who was given smaller rations?
Civil servants and professionals e.g. doctors.
