RUSSIA & THE SOVIET UNION 1917-1941 Impact of

Transcript:RUSSIA & THE SOVIET UNION 1917-1941 Impact of:
RUSSIA & THE SOVIET UNION 1917-1941 Impact of Stalin on society “If you meet with difficulties in your work, or suddenly doubt your abilities, think of him – of Stalin – and you will find the confidence you need. If you feel tired in an hour when you should not, think of him – of Stalin – and your work will go well. If you are seeking a correct decision – think of him – of Stalin – and you will find that decision.” Pravda, 1950 In order to give sharp focus to your answer, a clear understanding is needed of what ‘society’ is (refers to a group of people with common government – i.e. Soviet citizens and their culture – i.e. their values, attitudes, beliefs) Provide a clear and logical thesis in the introduction. The word ‘transformed’ = produced a new type (of society and culture) Therefore, it is important to say something about Russian society and culture before Stalin Work out a valid set of criteria by which to make an accurate evaluation – What were the various elements of soviet society and did Stalin promote change or continuity in each of these? The question is asking more than just – ‘How did Stalin effect people’s lives’. This may be a part of the answer, but the concepts of ‘society’ and ‘culture’ are more specific Evaluate the extent to which Stalin transformed the social and cultural life of the Soviet Union ASSESSMENT CRITERIA Change or continuity to the standard of living? Change or continuity in attitudes and beliefs? Change or continuity to arts, music, literature? Change or continuity to ethnic groups? Change of continuity in gender roles and family? Evaluate the extent to which Stalin transformed the social and cultural life of the Soviet Union Evaluate the extent to which Stalin transformed the social and cultural life of the Soviet Union INTRODUCTION: Stalin’s conservative policies saw a return to traditional values in many areas of Russian social and cultural life. He reacted against the radical transformation of Russian society and culture that resulted from the October Revolution, effectively undoing many social reforms of the 1920’s. However, other aspects such as working life were transformed under Stalin. This essay will examine the extent to which Stalin promoted either change or continuity in the working life, family life and gender roles of ordinary Soviet citizens. Stalin’s impact on soviet education,