War Communism: Key Concepts and Consequences

War Communism was an economic and political system in Soviet Russia during the Russian Civil War (1918-1921). It aimed to supply the Red Army and towns with resources amidst war disruptions. Key policies included nationalization, state control, and labor duties. The system's coherence was challenged by civil war conditions. Debate exists on whether it was a war measure or a step towards socialism. While it aided the Red Army, it caused economic decline, famine, and uprisings. The Kronstadt Rebellion in 1921 marked a turning point, leading to the New Economic Policy.

What was the primary goal of War Communism according to Soviet historiography?

• To create a democratic government

• To support towns and the Red Army with resources

• To establish a capitalist economy

• To promote international trade

Which of the following was NOT a policy under War Communism?

• Nationalization of industries

• Introduction of state control of foreign trade

• Encouragement of private enterprise

• Rationing of food and commodities

What was a major point of debate regarding the purpose of War Communism?

• Whether it led to the fall of the Bolshevik government

• Whether it was successful in increasing agricultural output

• Whether it was supported by the international community

• Whether it was a step towards socialism or just a wartime measure

What was one of the primary successes of War Communism?

• Establishing a free market economy

• Aiding the Red Army in reclaiming territory

• Improving the standard of living for peasants

• Increasing the population of urban centers

Which rebellion had a significant impact on Lenin during War Communism?

• The Moscow Uprising

• The Kronstadt Rebellion

• The Tambov Rebellion

• The Petrograd Strike

What economic issue emerged in Russia despite martial law during War Communism?

• A rise in industrial production

• An increase in foreign investments

• A black market

• A flourishing stock market

By 1921, what percentage of heavy industry output had fallen compared to 1913 levels?

• 30%

• 50%

• 20%

• 10%

What was a significant consequence of food requisitioning during War Communism?

• A rise in peasant cooperation

• An increase in agricultural exports

• A severe famine causing millions of deaths

• A surplus of food in urban areas

What was the impact of War Communism on urban populations like Petrograd and Moscow?

• Significant population growth

• Stable population levels

• Massive population decline

• Increased migration to cities

What was the state of the Russian economy by the end of War Communism in terms of currency?

• The ruble appreciated significantly

• The ruble was stable and widely used

• Barter replaced money as a medium of exchange

• Foreign currencies were adopted