Key Concepts and Figures of the Russian Revolution and Civil War

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Kronstadt Revolt

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A major uprising in March 1921 by sailors at the Kronstadt naval base against Bolshevik policies, demanding political reforms and greater freedoms.

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War Communism

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An economic and political system implemented by the Bolsheviks during the Civil War, characterised by the nationalization of industry, forced requisitioning of agricultural products, and centralized distribution.

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Grain Requisitioning

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The forced seizure of grain from peasants to feed the urban population and the Red Army.

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State Capitalism

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An economic policy adopted by the Bolsheviks in the early years of their rule, involving state control of key industries while allowing some private enterprise.

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Nationalisation

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The transfer of private assets into state ownership, particularly in industries like banking, railways, and heavy industry.

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Red Terror

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A campaign of political repression and mass killings carried out by the Bolsheviks during the Civil War.

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White Terror

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Similar acts of violence and repression carried out by anti-Bolshevik forces against perceived Bolshevik supporters.

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Russian Civil War

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A multi-party war from 1918 to 1921 between the Red Army (Bolsheviks) and the White Army (anti-Bolsheviks), along with other factions.

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Red Army

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The military force organized by the Bolsheviks to defend their regime.

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White Army

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A coalition of anti-Bolshevik forces, including monarchists, nationalists, and foreign interventionists.