The Stakhanovite movement was seen as a way of compelling management to adopt new production methods and increase rates of production. Those reluctant to do so were branded as saboteurs, with the warning "such pseudo leaders must be removed immediately". Many workers wanted to become a stakhanovites. When Stakhanovism started, workers resented the increased norms and there was increased tension between managers and workers. Some workers demanded to become Stakhanovites in order to gain increased pay and privileges. Ex) they demanded good tools but other workers resented that the would-be Stakhanovites got the best equipment. Stakhanovism presented managers with problems. Workers put them under a lot of pressure to be classified as a Stakhanovite and wanted good tools to do the job more efficiently, but there was not enough of these to go around. Such shortages frustrated workers and could lead them charging the managers with wrecking 'hindering us from working in a Stakhanovite fashion." Managers had to deal with other problems arising from Stakhanovism such as : resentment from workers who did not want production norms to increase and distortions in the production process caused by resources being focused on Stakhanovite workers. Managers were judged on total output not output from specific areas within enterprise. The stakhanovite campaign gave them the chance to overcome inertia in industry and put pressure on managers to improve productivity and raise output.
Character: (would-be Stakhanovite)
A) A would-be Stakhanovite's aims would be that we want the equipment like the Stakhanovites have and that we want to be treated the same as them. What the would-be Stakhanovites would have to do is that we need to show that we are the same as the Stakhanovites and we want to be supported by the managers with them. What the problems we would face would be not being treated the same as everyone and people striking against us. We want to overcome inertia in industry and put pressure on the managers like the Stakhanovites had done so that we can be like them.
B) If we, the would- be Stakhanovites, had a successful attempt it would help everyone that is working to have the same job opportunities and equipment. Having this equipment would help all of us so that we can be the same and treated the same and have the same output and that we wouldnt have food shortages that would frustrate the workers. We would not have to bother the managers or lose our jobs either.
Yes the group will support the would-be Stakhanovites because we want the would-be Stakhanovites to be the same as the Stakhanovites and to be treated the same. It is not fair that the Stakhanovites get the better equipment and they were not starved. This is why the group supports them because we are the people that want this for everyone so that we can all be the same. We want the same opportunites as the stakhanovites do. We want to charge the managers because then they will see that we are just like them and that we should have the same oportunites.
Monday, December 20, 2010
Monday, December 6, 2010
Collectivization of Agriculture
1. Why was collectivization necessary?
Collectivization was necessary because before collectivization the USSR was the bourgeois system and it will be changed to socialisim. The USSR needs a agricultural transfer so that it can be a collective ownership. Stalin wants the peasants to create food to please the workers so that they work and create industries so that the USSR will become industrailized
2. What is a kolkhoz?
The Kolkhoz were the collective farms that 50 - 100 families would live in. It pooled livestock, tools and land but the families had one acre to theirselves for their own use.
3. Who is a kulak?
The Kulaks are the better off peasants, middle peasants, poor peasants and landless laborers
4. How were the kulaks dealt with by the government?
The Kulak were dealt with by the government by other peasants having to live with them and they would have to share. The government expected more from them because they had more supplies then other peasants.
5. How did the peasants resist collectivization? What happened as a result?
The peasants resisted collectivization by killing their animals instead of giving them over to the government. As a result they were killed.
Examine the collective farm as illustrated in the reading, "A plan of a collective farm." Answer the following question:
6. What is a MTS Station?
a MTS station is a machine and tractor station that was established to support collective farms, they maintained and hired out machinery.
7. What were the dual purposes of the MTS Stations?
The MTS stations dual purposes were also used to control the countryside. Each MTS had a political department. Its job was to root out anti societ elements and troublemakers, and establish party cells in local areas. It was also there to ensure that every kolkhoz handed over its quota of grain.
8. How did a kolkhoz work and what was its relationship with the nearby town and its MTS?
Workers on the kolkhoz received no wages. THey were credited with 'workdays' in exchange for their labor on the collective fields. At the end of the year, the profits of the farm would be divided up according to the worke=days each peasant had put in. Also kolkohoz had to hand in their quota.
Collectivization was necessary because before collectivization the USSR was the bourgeois system and it will be changed to socialisim. The USSR needs a agricultural transfer so that it can be a collective ownership. Stalin wants the peasants to create food to please the workers so that they work and create industries so that the USSR will become industrailized
2. What is a kolkhoz?
The Kolkhoz were the collective farms that 50 - 100 families would live in. It pooled livestock, tools and land but the families had one acre to theirselves for their own use.
3. Who is a kulak?
The Kulaks are the better off peasants, middle peasants, poor peasants and landless laborers
4. How were the kulaks dealt with by the government?
The Kulak were dealt with by the government by other peasants having to live with them and they would have to share. The government expected more from them because they had more supplies then other peasants.
5. How did the peasants resist collectivization? What happened as a result?
The peasants resisted collectivization by killing their animals instead of giving them over to the government. As a result they were killed.
Examine the collective farm as illustrated in the reading, "A plan of a collective farm." Answer the following question:
6. What is a MTS Station?
a MTS station is a machine and tractor station that was established to support collective farms, they maintained and hired out machinery.
7. What were the dual purposes of the MTS Stations?
The MTS stations dual purposes were also used to control the countryside. Each MTS had a political department. Its job was to root out anti societ elements and troublemakers, and establish party cells in local areas. It was also there to ensure that every kolkhoz handed over its quota of grain.
8. How did a kolkhoz work and what was its relationship with the nearby town and its MTS?
Workers on the kolkhoz received no wages. THey were credited with 'workdays' in exchange for their labor on the collective fields. At the end of the year, the profits of the farm would be divided up according to the worke=days each peasant had put in. Also kolkohoz had to hand in their quota.
Friday, October 29, 2010
In Class: Lenin Between the Revolutions
1. Using Documents C, D, and E (page 2 - all numbers referred to are the big hand written page numbers) explain how Lenin and Stalin worked to secure the supremacy of the party.
Lenin and Stalin worked to secure the supremacy of the party in many ways. Document C is said by Lenin that he wants to secure the supremacy of the party and he doesnt want criticism of the shortcomings of the party to be directd towards the supporters. He wants anyone making critism to take account for their actions and wants to supress the other parties. Stalin, in document D, says that the party should be armed with revolutionary leaders mostly to look tough. He wants to opress the other parties because the Mensheviks dont want a revolution when they do. In Document E, the picture is showing the Mensheviks and the Social Revolutionaries pulling at stalins coat because he wants a revolution and he is walking showing that he wants to go on and secure the supremacy of the party but they are pulling saying that they dont want him to do this.
2. In what ways do Documents A, B and C (pages 3 - 4) support the assertion made in Document C that "Lenin wanted power, Lenin's rivals did not want it"?
3. What can be inferred from Document D (page 4) about the following?
a: Why soldiers wanted to go home
In document D it shows that the soldiers wanted to go home because they wanted land and freedom. They did not want to fight anymore because this was not their job to think about what should become of the state. The soldiers did not want to fight for Russia anymore because they were un wanted and had nothing. All they wanted was land and freedom, and that is all they wanted.
b: Why the soldiers now supported the Bolsheviks
The soldiers are now supporting the Bolsheviks because they once supported the Social revolutionaries because the social recvolutionaries did nothing for the soldiers and the Bolsheviks supported the soldiers and wanted them to be free and have land. Their slogan was, "peace, bread and land" and they had the support from the soldiers because they were treated so poorly and the Bolsheviks actually realized this. The soldiers supported the Bolsheviks because the Bolsheviks helped the soldiers realize that they could get out of the situation they were in.
Lenin and Stalin worked to secure the supremacy of the party in many ways. Document C is said by Lenin that he wants to secure the supremacy of the party and he doesnt want criticism of the shortcomings of the party to be directd towards the supporters. He wants anyone making critism to take account for their actions and wants to supress the other parties. Stalin, in document D, says that the party should be armed with revolutionary leaders mostly to look tough. He wants to opress the other parties because the Mensheviks dont want a revolution when they do. In Document E, the picture is showing the Mensheviks and the Social Revolutionaries pulling at stalins coat because he wants a revolution and he is walking showing that he wants to go on and secure the supremacy of the party but they are pulling saying that they dont want him to do this.
2. In what ways do Documents A, B and C (pages 3 - 4) support the assertion made in Document C that "Lenin wanted power, Lenin's rivals did not want it"?
3. What can be inferred from Document D (page 4) about the following?
a: Why soldiers wanted to go home
In document D it shows that the soldiers wanted to go home because they wanted land and freedom. They did not want to fight anymore because this was not their job to think about what should become of the state. The soldiers did not want to fight for Russia anymore because they were un wanted and had nothing. All they wanted was land and freedom, and that is all they wanted.
b: Why the soldiers now supported the Bolsheviks
The soldiers are now supporting the Bolsheviks because they once supported the Social revolutionaries because the social recvolutionaries did nothing for the soldiers and the Bolsheviks supported the soldiers and wanted them to be free and have land. Their slogan was, "peace, bread and land" and they had the support from the soldiers because they were treated so poorly and the Bolsheviks actually realized this. The soldiers supported the Bolsheviks because the Bolsheviks helped the soldiers realize that they could get out of the situation they were in.
Monday, October 25, 2010
lenin in Power
Read the shared reading, "New Economic Policy" Answer questions 1 -4.
Title: Lenin in Power Labels: Lenin, Sovnarkom, Cheka, Brest-Litovsk, Russian_Civil_War, White_Army, Red_Army
1. Read Source 20. What aspects of War Communism are the sailors most angry about? Would you expect peasants in Russia to feel the same?
The sailors are most angry about that they hoped for freedom but the result has been greater slavery. The sailors are saying that nothing has changed and they are sick of it and they want the third revolution to free workers and the soviets from communism. Yes, I would expect the peasants in Russia to feel the same way because they want the same things.
2. Does the evidence of Source 23 prove the NEP was a success? Explain your answer with reference to Sources 22, 24 and 25.
The evidence of Source 23 does prove that the NEP was a success because even though the economy and everything went down it was brought back up, according to source 23. Source 24 says that Russia was so poor and people were starving but the economy went back up and it would be beautiful. Source 25 is saying that the families in russia were so poor and they had nothing but that it was going to go up
3. From all you have found about Lenin, do you agree with Source 26? Why or why not?
Yes, I do agree with source 26 about lenin. Lenin had so many things he wanted to do with Russia to get it on its feet. He wanted to do so much for Russia so he picked up the power. He took the power and wanted to keep it. He made the April Theses which showed that he was a good leader because he was trying to start over with Russia and help them out. Source 26 is completely right saying that Lenin was a good man, and even though he had faults, he always was trying to help russia.
How did the Bolsheviks consolidate their rule?
4. Write an explanation of how the Bolsheviks made their rule more secure. Mention the following:
The Bolsheviks made their rule more secure in so many ways. The Bolsheviks showed the people that they were loyal and the people loved that. When the Red Army came in and broke up the mobs the people were so happy that they had came back. They used Propaganda which was in their favor because when people saw the propaganda they believed that the Bolsheviks were great people for fighting off the whites. They tried so hard to get support from the people and they were. The workers, and the peasants liked the Bolsheviks because they knew what they wanted. The Bolsheviks created the April These which many people liked because it was a set outline for the promise of a new society. People wanted a change and the Bolsheviks were a good one. I believe that the most important factor was Promising a new society because thats what the people wanted. This got the peoples attention, along with propaganda, because the people would see these things and believe that they were going to happen.
Title: Lenin in Power Labels: Lenin, Sovnarkom, Cheka, Brest-Litovsk, Russian_Civil_War, White_Army, Red_Army
1. Read Source 20. What aspects of War Communism are the sailors most angry about? Would you expect peasants in Russia to feel the same?
The sailors are most angry about that they hoped for freedom but the result has been greater slavery. The sailors are saying that nothing has changed and they are sick of it and they want the third revolution to free workers and the soviets from communism. Yes, I would expect the peasants in Russia to feel the same way because they want the same things.
2. Does the evidence of Source 23 prove the NEP was a success? Explain your answer with reference to Sources 22, 24 and 25.
The evidence of Source 23 does prove that the NEP was a success because even though the economy and everything went down it was brought back up, according to source 23. Source 24 says that Russia was so poor and people were starving but the economy went back up and it would be beautiful. Source 25 is saying that the families in russia were so poor and they had nothing but that it was going to go up
3. From all you have found about Lenin, do you agree with Source 26? Why or why not?
Yes, I do agree with source 26 about lenin. Lenin had so many things he wanted to do with Russia to get it on its feet. He wanted to do so much for Russia so he picked up the power. He took the power and wanted to keep it. He made the April Theses which showed that he was a good leader because he was trying to start over with Russia and help them out. Source 26 is completely right saying that Lenin was a good man, and even though he had faults, he always was trying to help russia.
How did the Bolsheviks consolidate their rule?
4. Write an explanation of how the Bolsheviks made their rule more secure. Mention the following:
The Bolsheviks made their rule more secure in so many ways. The Bolsheviks showed the people that they were loyal and the people loved that. When the Red Army came in and broke up the mobs the people were so happy that they had came back. They used Propaganda which was in their favor because when people saw the propaganda they believed that the Bolsheviks were great people for fighting off the whites. They tried so hard to get support from the people and they were. The workers, and the peasants liked the Bolsheviks because they knew what they wanted. The Bolsheviks created the April These which many people liked because it was a set outline for the promise of a new society. People wanted a change and the Bolsheviks were a good one. I believe that the most important factor was Promising a new society because thats what the people wanted. This got the peoples attention, along with propaganda, because the people would see these things and believe that they were going to happen.
Lenin in Power
1. What was the Sovnarkom?
The Sovnarkom was the Council of People's Commissars.
2. Why was the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk bad for Russia?
The Treaty of Brest-Litovsk was bad for Russia because land was lost and Russia lost 34 percent of its population, 32 percent of its agricultural land, 54 percent of its industry, 26 percent of its railways and 89 percent of its coal mines. This was another example of Lenin's single-minded leadership.
3. Who were the "Whites"?
The Whites were anti-bolsheviks and wanted to crush the Bolsheviks.
4.. Read Source 3. What evidence does it provide of Lenin's
a) political skill
It shows that Lenin wanted to take over most of Russia. Everyone is striking eg. bank clerks, higher officials. This shows that nobody wanted to hear what he has to say and they just want to strike because they do not agree.
b) ruthlessness
Lenin did not care about what other people did and he was knew what people were doing but he wanted to have the power which wasnt good because he was loosing support instead of gaining it.
5. Use Sources 5 and 7 to describe how the Civil War affected ordinary people.
The Peasants were mad at the Bolsheviks and hated them because the red gaurds are trying to take their grain and they do not want to give it. If they restrain machine guns are taken out and death is the only option. Source 5 describes how the Civil war affected the peasants because they were starving and the red gaurds were taking their food. Source 7 describes how the Civil war affected ordinary people because people were shooting at their houses and their villages and then they had to give heir best cattle, pigs, good, and bread for the soldiers so that they would be able to fight.
6. "Most Russians saw the Bolsheviks as the lesser of two evils." With reference to Sources 5, 7, 13 and 16 explain whether or not you agree with this statement or not.
I do agree with "most russians saw the Bolsheviks as the lesser of the two evils" because the Russians know that even though times were bad, they could have been so much worse. The Bolsheviks just wanted power and they wanted people to take them seriously so they were very strict. They were trying to start a new government because it was not going to be an anarchy anymore. They wanted people to believe they had the power so they did take land, and wanted their soldiers to do the best and to win. They had alot of ideas and wanted to have more. They shot people because they wanted people to take them seriously. I agree with this statement because even though they were evil in a way, they still were not the worse and the Bolsheviks were trying to help by being strict.
The Sovnarkom was the Council of People's Commissars.
2. Why was the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk bad for Russia?
The Treaty of Brest-Litovsk was bad for Russia because land was lost and Russia lost 34 percent of its population, 32 percent of its agricultural land, 54 percent of its industry, 26 percent of its railways and 89 percent of its coal mines. This was another example of Lenin's single-minded leadership.
3. Who were the "Whites"?
The Whites were anti-bolsheviks and wanted to crush the Bolsheviks.
4.. Read Source 3. What evidence does it provide of Lenin's
a) political skill
It shows that Lenin wanted to take over most of Russia. Everyone is striking eg. bank clerks, higher officials. This shows that nobody wanted to hear what he has to say and they just want to strike because they do not agree.
b) ruthlessness
Lenin did not care about what other people did and he was knew what people were doing but he wanted to have the power which wasnt good because he was loosing support instead of gaining it.
5. Use Sources 5 and 7 to describe how the Civil War affected ordinary people.
The Peasants were mad at the Bolsheviks and hated them because the red gaurds are trying to take their grain and they do not want to give it. If they restrain machine guns are taken out and death is the only option. Source 5 describes how the Civil war affected the peasants because they were starving and the red gaurds were taking their food. Source 7 describes how the Civil war affected ordinary people because people were shooting at their houses and their villages and then they had to give heir best cattle, pigs, good, and bread for the soldiers so that they would be able to fight.
6. "Most Russians saw the Bolsheviks as the lesser of two evils." With reference to Sources 5, 7, 13 and 16 explain whether or not you agree with this statement or not.
I do agree with "most russians saw the Bolsheviks as the lesser of the two evils" because the Russians know that even though times were bad, they could have been so much worse. The Bolsheviks just wanted power and they wanted people to take them seriously so they were very strict. They were trying to start a new government because it was not going to be an anarchy anymore. They wanted people to believe they had the power so they did take land, and wanted their soldiers to do the best and to win. They had alot of ideas and wanted to have more. They shot people because they wanted people to take them seriously. I agree with this statement because even though they were evil in a way, they still were not the worse and the Bolsheviks were trying to help by being strict.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
October 1917 Revolution
How effective was the Provisional Government?
1. Here is a list of some decisions that faced the Provisional Government when it took over in March 1917:
-- What to do about the war- The provisional government wanted to get out of the war which was a good decision in a way because the soldiers agreed with this because the soldiers didn't want to be in the war anymore because they were tired of loosing to germany.
-- What to do about land- the Provisional Government took the land from peasants and gave it to the nobles. This upset the peasants so much and they had little respect for the Provisional government.
-- What to do about food-they didn't do anything about the food. The provisional government let it be the way it was, which was that nobody had food and many were dying. Many, almost all of the peasants, hated the Provisional Government now because many were dying and they were doing little to help.
For each one, say how the government dealt with it, and what the result of the action was.
2. Look for evidence in the reading of how the actions of its opponents harmed the Provisional Government:
-- Members of the soviets-This group was also payed attention to by the wprkers. The soviets had the support of workers in key industries as coal mining and the support of the army.
-- Bolsheviks-Bolsheviks led protests against the war and they turned into rebellion. However, when Kerensky produced evidence that lenin had been helped by the Germans, suppor for the rebellion fell.
-- General Kornilov-He wanted to get rid of the provisional government so he marched his troops to get rid of them. He had some troops which were on his side and others who were not loyal which harmed the provisional government but his plan collapsed.
3. Based on your answers to questions 1 & 2, how effective do you think the Provisional Government was? Your answer should be at least two paragraphs. Make sure you provide key details and analysis.
I believe that the provisional government was very effective. Having the majority of votes because they supported the workers helped them out very much. Also, they were very strong and believed in what they thought was right.
Having the majority of the votes helped them stay in office. They had the majority of the votes which were the peasants. They promised the peasants that they would not take any land before the war ended with Germany. They didn't want to end the war because they wanted to finish what had been started. They also had the support from the nobles, lawyers and more. This was important. Also, they were only going to stay into office untill re elections which showed that they didn't think they were going to stay in office for good but they were willing to come out if not elected.
The provisional government believe in what they thought was right which showed the people they wanted to be in office for everyone and to help the situation in russia. The provisional government wanted to help all of the people in russia because the Tsar couldn't. They said that they would come out of office if not re elected which was a good source for the peasants of Russia.
Read the .pdf file Lenin & Trotsky, then:
The Appeal of Lenin and Trotsky
1. Using Sources 42 - 44, and the Profile of Lenin, add extra details to the profile of Lenin:
-- Why Lenin appealed to people-He appeared on the platform in front of an audience. Lenin's brilliant speeches inspired the workers and soldiers to a determined struggle,
-- His personal qualities-he was an extrodinary figure and formost a professional revolutionary. He was a man of iron and inflexible ambition. Short and strudy with a bald head, small beard and deep set eyes. He was the overall planner of the revolution.
-- His strengths as a leader- he was first and foremost a professional revolutionary and had no other occupation. He was theoverall planner of the revolution. He had control and he knew what he was doing. He was very smart as a leader and knew what had to be done in order to get into power.
2. Using Sources 45 - 47, and the Profile of Trotsky, add extra details to the profile of Trotsky:
-- Why Trotsky appealed to people- He appealed to people because he told them what they wanted to hear which made them believe him.
-- His personal qualities- he was a very good public speaker. He made people believe him because he would say examples of real life.
-- His strengths as a leader-He carefully always used exampled in his speeches which made the people believe in him. He had power to master the crowd. He worked behind the scenes.
3. Finally, write a short report on the contribution of each individual to the Bolsheviks' success in 1917.
All of these leaders led to the Bolsheviks success in 1917 because they were not thinking about everyone but just themselves. The provisional government didn't think about what would happen if they took control of the lands and took everything away from the peasants which was not a smart idea because this made them look like they were bad and they only wanted to please themselves. General Kornivol took complete control without thinking and this made the peasants hate Kornivol which made the Bolsheviks look much better then any other party. Lenin took complete control very easily but when everything went wrong and Lenin was made to look like a German, the Bolsheviks came back and showed the people that they were very loyal.
1. Here is a list of some decisions that faced the Provisional Government when it took over in March 1917:
-- What to do about the war- The provisional government wanted to get out of the war which was a good decision in a way because the soldiers agreed with this because the soldiers didn't want to be in the war anymore because they were tired of loosing to germany.
-- What to do about land- the Provisional Government took the land from peasants and gave it to the nobles. This upset the peasants so much and they had little respect for the Provisional government.
-- What to do about food-they didn't do anything about the food. The provisional government let it be the way it was, which was that nobody had food and many were dying. Many, almost all of the peasants, hated the Provisional Government now because many were dying and they were doing little to help.
For each one, say how the government dealt with it, and what the result of the action was.
2. Look for evidence in the reading of how the actions of its opponents harmed the Provisional Government:
-- Members of the soviets-This group was also payed attention to by the wprkers. The soviets had the support of workers in key industries as coal mining and the support of the army.
-- Bolsheviks-Bolsheviks led protests against the war and they turned into rebellion. However, when Kerensky produced evidence that lenin had been helped by the Germans, suppor for the rebellion fell.
-- General Kornilov-He wanted to get rid of the provisional government so he marched his troops to get rid of them. He had some troops which were on his side and others who were not loyal which harmed the provisional government but his plan collapsed.
3. Based on your answers to questions 1 & 2, how effective do you think the Provisional Government was? Your answer should be at least two paragraphs. Make sure you provide key details and analysis.
I believe that the provisional government was very effective. Having the majority of votes because they supported the workers helped them out very much. Also, they were very strong and believed in what they thought was right.
Having the majority of the votes helped them stay in office. They had the majority of the votes which were the peasants. They promised the peasants that they would not take any land before the war ended with Germany. They didn't want to end the war because they wanted to finish what had been started. They also had the support from the nobles, lawyers and more. This was important. Also, they were only going to stay into office untill re elections which showed that they didn't think they were going to stay in office for good but they were willing to come out if not elected.
The provisional government believe in what they thought was right which showed the people they wanted to be in office for everyone and to help the situation in russia. The provisional government wanted to help all of the people in russia because the Tsar couldn't. They said that they would come out of office if not re elected which was a good source for the peasants of Russia.
Read the .pdf file Lenin & Trotsky, then:
The Appeal of Lenin and Trotsky
1. Using Sources 42 - 44, and the Profile of Lenin, add extra details to the profile of Lenin:
-- Why Lenin appealed to people-He appeared on the platform in front of an audience. Lenin's brilliant speeches inspired the workers and soldiers to a determined struggle,
-- His personal qualities-he was an extrodinary figure and formost a professional revolutionary. He was a man of iron and inflexible ambition. Short and strudy with a bald head, small beard and deep set eyes. He was the overall planner of the revolution.
-- His strengths as a leader- he was first and foremost a professional revolutionary and had no other occupation. He was theoverall planner of the revolution. He had control and he knew what he was doing. He was very smart as a leader and knew what had to be done in order to get into power.
2. Using Sources 45 - 47, and the Profile of Trotsky, add extra details to the profile of Trotsky:
-- Why Trotsky appealed to people- He appealed to people because he told them what they wanted to hear which made them believe him.
-- His personal qualities- he was a very good public speaker. He made people believe him because he would say examples of real life.
-- His strengths as a leader-He carefully always used exampled in his speeches which made the people believe in him. He had power to master the crowd. He worked behind the scenes.
3. Finally, write a short report on the contribution of each individual to the Bolsheviks' success in 1917.
All of these leaders led to the Bolsheviks success in 1917 because they were not thinking about everyone but just themselves. The provisional government didn't think about what would happen if they took control of the lands and took everything away from the peasants which was not a smart idea because this made them look like they were bad and they only wanted to please themselves. General Kornivol took complete control without thinking and this made the peasants hate Kornivol which made the Bolsheviks look much better then any other party. Lenin took complete control very easily but when everything went wrong and Lenin was made to look like a German, the Bolsheviks came back and showed the people that they were very loyal.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Lenin and the Bolsheviks Take Power
1. Why was Lenin reluctant to compromise with the Mensheviks or Socialist Revolutionaries?
Lenin was reluctant to compromise with the Mensheviks and Socialist Revolutionaries because he believed their willingness to compromise would ruin his revolutionary agenda. Lenin believed that accommodation with the government was not possible and he believed he needed to smash it.
2. List two reasons why the Provisional Government under Kerensky could not govern.
The provisional government under Kerensky could not govern because he put everyone in danger. He pressured the army to go on the offensive against the germans. It was disastrous and there were over 200,000 russian casualties. The government had gambled that a successful offensive might unite the country but instead they lost thousands of troops.
3. The Bolsheviks did not have a majority at the Congress of Soviets after the October Revolution. How did they manage to assume power?
The Bolsheviks managed to assume power when they went to the Centeral Committee on October 10, 1917. Only twelve of the twenty one members were present but Lenin had such a powerful personality that the central commitee voted 10-2 in favor of them.
4. What did the Bolsheviks have to give up in order to get out of World War I? What was the name of the Treaty?
The Bolsheviks had to give up their pride. They had to make peace with Germany to get out of the war and the Treaty name was The treaty of Brest-Litovks which freed russia from the war.
5. What was the Checka?
The checka was when Soviets created the all-russian extraordinary commission for struggle against counter revolution, sabotage, and speculations. This was operations outside the bounds of the law, it made arrests, tortured and executed thousands, and took hostages in areas that were suspected of favoring the whites. Lenin and the Bolsheviks were trying to terrify society into submission.
6. What supporters joined the Red Army? White Army?
Anti-bolshevik's joined the red army while the white had support from the upper and middle class. The red army and white army both consisted of peasants.
7. How many Russians died during the Civil War? How many emigrated to other countries?
As many as 13 million died during the Civil war. Two million Russians emigrated to other countries. The red Army, which had five million soldiers by the end of the war, prevailed on the battlefield.
Lenin was reluctant to compromise with the Mensheviks and Socialist Revolutionaries because he believed their willingness to compromise would ruin his revolutionary agenda. Lenin believed that accommodation with the government was not possible and he believed he needed to smash it.
2. List two reasons why the Provisional Government under Kerensky could not govern.
The provisional government under Kerensky could not govern because he put everyone in danger. He pressured the army to go on the offensive against the germans. It was disastrous and there were over 200,000 russian casualties. The government had gambled that a successful offensive might unite the country but instead they lost thousands of troops.
3. The Bolsheviks did not have a majority at the Congress of Soviets after the October Revolution. How did they manage to assume power?
The Bolsheviks managed to assume power when they went to the Centeral Committee on October 10, 1917. Only twelve of the twenty one members were present but Lenin had such a powerful personality that the central commitee voted 10-2 in favor of them.
4. What did the Bolsheviks have to give up in order to get out of World War I? What was the name of the Treaty?
The Bolsheviks had to give up their pride. They had to make peace with Germany to get out of the war and the Treaty name was The treaty of Brest-Litovks which freed russia from the war.
5. What was the Checka?
The checka was when Soviets created the all-russian extraordinary commission for struggle against counter revolution, sabotage, and speculations. This was operations outside the bounds of the law, it made arrests, tortured and executed thousands, and took hostages in areas that were suspected of favoring the whites. Lenin and the Bolsheviks were trying to terrify society into submission.
6. What supporters joined the Red Army? White Army?
Anti-bolshevik's joined the red army while the white had support from the upper and middle class. The red army and white army both consisted of peasants.
7. How many Russians died during the Civil War? How many emigrated to other countries?
As many as 13 million died during the Civil war. Two million Russians emigrated to other countries. The red Army, which had five million soldiers by the end of the war, prevailed on the battlefield.
Russia Revelution 1905
1. Why was modernisation needed?
Modernisation was needed for two reasons, to be a great power in the twentieth century and it was important to industrialize so that it would be able to provide weapons, ships, munition and the other military equipment for modern warfare. The second reason that modernisation was needed was because Russia was poor. The farmers were still doing outdated traditional methods, such as strip farming, and making minimal use of machinery and modern farming methods.
2. Why was modernisation dangerous to the Tsar?
Modernisation was dangerous to the Tsar because it posed as a serious threat to the tsarist regime. Industralizaton created social tension when millions moved from the country sides to cities. Living in the cities would make it easier then the peasants to undertake concerted action. The growth of the middle class would create pressure nfor polictical change and for more accountable and representative government.
3. How did Witte try to build up industry?
Witte's plan was to make a huge investment in industry to create a spiral of upward industrial groth. The more the industry grew, the more demand there would be for other products, which would lead to further growth, and so on. Witte places much nof his faith in the development of railways. These would improve communications betweens cities, they would also create demands for iron, steel, coal and other industries associated with railways building. This wasn't enough though so the government needed to buy more expensive machinery. Witte's policy ws to squeeze resources out of the peasants to pay for industrialisation. He kept the urban workers' wages low so that all the money available went into industrial development. Witte hoped that industrial growth would lead to more wealth for everyone before the squeeze hurt too much.
4. How successful was Witte's ecomonic policy?
Witte's economic policy was not successful in the end. It was very successful when he was sqeezing the peasants to pay for industrailisation but then they were being sqeezed too much. They had been squeezed so hard that they did not have any more money to spend on manufactured goods. Thousands of new industrail workers lost their jobs and strikes and protests broke out in most cities. There were also problems in the country side. There was bad harvest in 1900 and 1902 which pushed the peasants into starvation. They had already been squeexed by Witte's policies and now they were at a breaking point. Witte's economic policy was working for a better industrialisation but it only worked for some time because the peasnats couldnt buy any more to keep it going which in the end colapsed everything.
Modernisation was needed for two reasons, to be a great power in the twentieth century and it was important to industrialize so that it would be able to provide weapons, ships, munition and the other military equipment for modern warfare. The second reason that modernisation was needed was because Russia was poor. The farmers were still doing outdated traditional methods, such as strip farming, and making minimal use of machinery and modern farming methods.
2. Why was modernisation dangerous to the Tsar?
Modernisation was dangerous to the Tsar because it posed as a serious threat to the tsarist regime. Industralizaton created social tension when millions moved from the country sides to cities. Living in the cities would make it easier then the peasants to undertake concerted action. The growth of the middle class would create pressure nfor polictical change and for more accountable and representative government.
3. How did Witte try to build up industry?
Witte's plan was to make a huge investment in industry to create a spiral of upward industrial groth. The more the industry grew, the more demand there would be for other products, which would lead to further growth, and so on. Witte places much nof his faith in the development of railways. These would improve communications betweens cities, they would also create demands for iron, steel, coal and other industries associated with railways building. This wasn't enough though so the government needed to buy more expensive machinery. Witte's policy ws to squeeze resources out of the peasants to pay for industrialisation. He kept the urban workers' wages low so that all the money available went into industrial development. Witte hoped that industrial growth would lead to more wealth for everyone before the squeeze hurt too much.
4. How successful was Witte's ecomonic policy?
Witte's economic policy was not successful in the end. It was very successful when he was sqeezing the peasants to pay for industrailisation but then they were being sqeezed too much. They had been squeezed so hard that they did not have any more money to spend on manufactured goods. Thousands of new industrail workers lost their jobs and strikes and protests broke out in most cities. There were also problems in the country side. There was bad harvest in 1900 and 1902 which pushed the peasants into starvation. They had already been squeexed by Witte's policies and now they were at a breaking point. Witte's economic policy was working for a better industrialisation but it only worked for some time because the peasnats couldnt buy any more to keep it going which in the end colapsed everything.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Russia: Revolutionary Period, 1905-1917
Read Part II - (pages 13-22) "We Can No Longer Live Like This" - 1905 - 1917
The revolutionary period of 1905-1917
1. Peter Stolypin believed that the crown's survival depended on what two factors?
Peter Stolypin believed that the crown's survival depended on the restoration of order and genuine cooperation with the Dumas.
2. What was the "Stolypin's necktie"?
"Stolypin's necktie" was when thousands of peasants were executed.
3. Economic conditions between 1910 and 1914 in Russia were mixed.
a. What are examples of the postive economic conditions?
When iron and coal production increased as did russia's imports and exports. Russia was the world's leading grain exporter.
b. What are examples of negative economic conditions?
When the workers started to get violent. There was a massacre of 350 striking gold miners in Siberia by government troops. Then three million laborers participated in over nine thousand strikes.
4. List three ways that Russia financed its costs during World War I.
-Increasing taxes
-securing foreign loans
-inflation skyrocketed
5. Why was Rasputin an important figure? How was he regarded by many Russians?
Rasputin was an important figure because he bragged about himself and recieved bribes and sexual favors from those who desired his intervention on their behalf. Russian's liked Rasputin but not enough because he was murdered. The rumors of the german spies changed the publics eye.
6. List two reasons why workers called for a change of government in the winter of 1916-17.
The people were upset because everyone was freezing because it was 15 below zero while the government officials were happy and warm. There were alot of strikes. Then government officials shut down jobs and when the angry workers marched towards the city center they were stopped because the police said that" something serious might happen"
7. Why was the soldiers' mutiny of February 27 so important?
The soldiers mutiny on february 27 was so important because this mutiny caused Nicholas II to reign. This is what there plan was because the soldiers went with the workers and there were 1,500 killed approx.
8. How did the Soviet gain the loyality of the soldiers?
To create a new "dual authority" . The soldiers sound immunity and protection because there was nobody and people were frightened that Russia would vanish and go into the darkness.
9. List five of the political reforms of the Provisional Government.
-freedom of assemly
-press
-speech
-and universal suffrage
-they wanted a new government all together.
The revolutionary period of 1905-1917
1. Peter Stolypin believed that the crown's survival depended on what two factors?
Peter Stolypin believed that the crown's survival depended on the restoration of order and genuine cooperation with the Dumas.
2. What was the "Stolypin's necktie"?
"Stolypin's necktie" was when thousands of peasants were executed.
3. Economic conditions between 1910 and 1914 in Russia were mixed.
a. What are examples of the postive economic conditions?
When iron and coal production increased as did russia's imports and exports. Russia was the world's leading grain exporter.
b. What are examples of negative economic conditions?
When the workers started to get violent. There was a massacre of 350 striking gold miners in Siberia by government troops. Then three million laborers participated in over nine thousand strikes.
4. List three ways that Russia financed its costs during World War I.
-Increasing taxes
-securing foreign loans
-inflation skyrocketed
5. Why was Rasputin an important figure? How was he regarded by many Russians?
Rasputin was an important figure because he bragged about himself and recieved bribes and sexual favors from those who desired his intervention on their behalf. Russian's liked Rasputin but not enough because he was murdered. The rumors of the german spies changed the publics eye.
6. List two reasons why workers called for a change of government in the winter of 1916-17.
The people were upset because everyone was freezing because it was 15 below zero while the government officials were happy and warm. There were alot of strikes. Then government officials shut down jobs and when the angry workers marched towards the city center they were stopped because the police said that" something serious might happen"
7. Why was the soldiers' mutiny of February 27 so important?
The soldiers mutiny on february 27 was so important because this mutiny caused Nicholas II to reign. This is what there plan was because the soldiers went with the workers and there were 1,500 killed approx.
8. How did the Soviet gain the loyality of the soldiers?
To create a new "dual authority" . The soldiers sound immunity and protection because there was nobody and people were frightened that Russia would vanish and go into the darkness.
9. List five of the political reforms of the Provisional Government.
-freedom of assemly
-press
-speech
-and universal suffrage
-they wanted a new government all together.
Russia, 1861-1905
1. List the general goals of the:
a. socialists
The Socialists hoped to create a classless society that would end the exploitation and suffering of the peasants and workers. They wanted to dismantle the capitalists economic system by taking the "means of production" and turning them into state.
b. liberal reformers
Liberal reformers believed that they could put in place western constitutional practices and rule of law to solve Russia's problems.
2. List three characteristics of serfs' lives.
The serfs' lived in approximately 750,000 small villages dispersed throughout the russian empire. Most serfs farmed the land communally on open field strips, using the same techniques employed by previous generations. They also worked the land of the nobles or the state and paid rent to their landlords in the form of cash, produce, or labor.
3. List four reforms of Tsar Alexander II.
1. Tsar believed that the first step towards russia's modernization was the elimination of the system of serfdom.
2. Jury trials and relaxed censorship laws.
3. Local elected assemblies known as zemstvos
4. Also to increase industrial production
4. Why did the populists go "to the people" in 1873-1874?
their effort was motivated by the desire to establish personal connections with the downtrodden peasantry. Many of these were propagandists, convicted that they could persuade the simple folk to join the revolutionary cause. The movement to the people ended with the mass arrest of the young radicals.
5. List two consequences of the famine of 1891.
Hungry and discontented, the peasants became increasingly bitter. Many communities stages small-scae revolts and land seizures. Half a million peasants perished from famine and disease.
6. Why was Karl Marx important to Russian intellectuals?
Marx was a sharp critic of the capitalist economic system and the processes of industrialization. His ideas held great appeal because they explained the social work systematically. His ideas seemed to offer explanation for the causes of the famine. His "European" ideas could help russia become more like Europe.
7. What were the Goals and Methods of the following political groups in early twentieth century Russia? (see page 8 of the reading)
a. Liberal Democrats'
They supported evolving to a more western european system of government. They came largely rom the middle class. These liberals valued individual liberty and saw the role of the state as protecting the rights of citizens.
b. Socialist Revolutionaries
they worked to gather the support of workers and peasants for revolutionary socialist parties of early twentieth-century Russia were. These were the most radical party. "Land and Liberty" was their slogan.
c. Social Democrats
Supported Marxism. They believed that as russia industrailized and became more capitalistic, it was becoming more fertile ground for socialist activity focusing on the working class instead of the peasantry.
8. How did Bloody Sunday change people's attitudes toward the Tsar?
The centuries-old view o the tsar was a benevolent protector of the people was destroyed. People now thought the opposite and that he was very violent and they took their frustration out on the country.
9. List four reforms in Tsar Nicholas's October Manifesto
The reforms outlines in the manifesto included and expansion of civil liberties, a limited monarchy, a legislature elected by universal suffrage, and legalization of trade unions and political parties.
a. socialists
The Socialists hoped to create a classless society that would end the exploitation and suffering of the peasants and workers. They wanted to dismantle the capitalists economic system by taking the "means of production" and turning them into state.
b. liberal reformers
Liberal reformers believed that they could put in place western constitutional practices and rule of law to solve Russia's problems.
2. List three characteristics of serfs' lives.
The serfs' lived in approximately 750,000 small villages dispersed throughout the russian empire. Most serfs farmed the land communally on open field strips, using the same techniques employed by previous generations. They also worked the land of the nobles or the state and paid rent to their landlords in the form of cash, produce, or labor.
3. List four reforms of Tsar Alexander II.
1. Tsar believed that the first step towards russia's modernization was the elimination of the system of serfdom.
2. Jury trials and relaxed censorship laws.
3. Local elected assemblies known as zemstvos
4. Also to increase industrial production
4. Why did the populists go "to the people" in 1873-1874?
their effort was motivated by the desire to establish personal connections with the downtrodden peasantry. Many of these were propagandists, convicted that they could persuade the simple folk to join the revolutionary cause. The movement to the people ended with the mass arrest of the young radicals.
5. List two consequences of the famine of 1891.
Hungry and discontented, the peasants became increasingly bitter. Many communities stages small-scae revolts and land seizures. Half a million peasants perished from famine and disease.
6. Why was Karl Marx important to Russian intellectuals?
Marx was a sharp critic of the capitalist economic system and the processes of industrialization. His ideas held great appeal because they explained the social work systematically. His ideas seemed to offer explanation for the causes of the famine. His "European" ideas could help russia become more like Europe.
7. What were the Goals and Methods of the following political groups in early twentieth century Russia? (see page 8 of the reading)
a. Liberal Democrats'
They supported evolving to a more western european system of government. They came largely rom the middle class. These liberals valued individual liberty and saw the role of the state as protecting the rights of citizens.
b. Socialist Revolutionaries
they worked to gather the support of workers and peasants for revolutionary socialist parties of early twentieth-century Russia were. These were the most radical party. "Land and Liberty" was their slogan.
c. Social Democrats
Supported Marxism. They believed that as russia industrailized and became more capitalistic, it was becoming more fertile ground for socialist activity focusing on the working class instead of the peasantry.
8. How did Bloody Sunday change people's attitudes toward the Tsar?
The centuries-old view o the tsar was a benevolent protector of the people was destroyed. People now thought the opposite and that he was very violent and they took their frustration out on the country.
9. List four reforms in Tsar Nicholas's October Manifesto
The reforms outlines in the manifesto included and expansion of civil liberties, a limited monarchy, a legislature elected by universal suffrage, and legalization of trade unions and political parties.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Russia, 1905 to 1914
1. How did Tsar Nicholas II survive the 1905 Revolution?
Tsar Nicholas II survived the 1905 revolution because his opponents were not united, there was no central leadership, he had been willing to compromise at the critical moment by issuing the october manifesto, promising concessions and most of the army remained loyal.
2. What was the Tsar's general attitude about the Dumas?
He did not take them seriously. He changed the DUmas rules all the time. He had the First duma dispersed by troops after only 10 weeks. The second duma he changed the voting system and the third and fourth duma lasted longer but he still controlled them greatly.
3. What specifics improvements occcured following the 1905 Revolution?
The specific improvements occured following the 1905 revolution were the traditional liberal view was that although the regime had obviously weaknesess, there were signs that shortly before the first world war broke out, living standards were improving, and that given time, the chances of revolution would have diminished.
4. Summarize the 5 major weaknesses of the Tsar's regime
1. Failure of the land reforms: Stolypis land reforms would not have the desired effect because the peasant population was growing too rapidly.
2. Industial unrest: There was a wave of industrial strikes set off by the shooting of 270 striking goldminers.
3. Government repression: There was little relaxation of the goverments repressive policy, as the secret police rooted out revolutionaries among university students and lextures deported jews.
4. Revival of revolutionary parties: That the workers would soon get enough money and that they would want to rule themselves
5. The royal family discredited: The royal family was discredited by a number of scandals one being that Nicholas himself was a party to the murder of Stolypin.
Tsar Nicholas II survived the 1905 revolution because his opponents were not united, there was no central leadership, he had been willing to compromise at the critical moment by issuing the october manifesto, promising concessions and most of the army remained loyal.
2. What was the Tsar's general attitude about the Dumas?
He did not take them seriously. He changed the DUmas rules all the time. He had the First duma dispersed by troops after only 10 weeks. The second duma he changed the voting system and the third and fourth duma lasted longer but he still controlled them greatly.
3. What specifics improvements occcured following the 1905 Revolution?
The specific improvements occured following the 1905 revolution were the traditional liberal view was that although the regime had obviously weaknesess, there were signs that shortly before the first world war broke out, living standards were improving, and that given time, the chances of revolution would have diminished.
4. Summarize the 5 major weaknesses of the Tsar's regime
1. Failure of the land reforms: Stolypis land reforms would not have the desired effect because the peasant population was growing too rapidly.
2. Industial unrest: There was a wave of industrial strikes set off by the shooting of 270 striking goldminers.
3. Government repression: There was little relaxation of the goverments repressive policy, as the secret police rooted out revolutionaries among university students and lextures deported jews.
4. Revival of revolutionary parties: That the workers would soon get enough money and that they would want to rule themselves
5. The royal family discredited: The royal family was discredited by a number of scandals one being that Nicholas himself was a party to the murder of Stolypin.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
hat Caused WWI, and Who was to Blame?
A: Alliance System
The American Diplomat and historian George Kennan believed that one the 1894 alliance had been signed between France and Russia. The fat or Europe was sealed. Suspicion mounted between the two opposing camps, russia, austria-hungary, and germany got themselves into situations which they could not escape from without suffering further humiliation; war seemed to be the only war for them to save face.
B: Colonial Rivalry
In early July 1914 Anglo-German relations were good: and agreement favorable to German had just been reached over a possible partition of Portuguese colonies in Africa. However, there was one side-effect of colonial rivalry which did cause dangerous friction- this was naval rivalry.
C: Naval Race
Germany government believed in Alfred Mahan who believed the way to a great empire was through great navy. Therefore Germany needed to create a much larger navy capable of challenging the world's greatest sea power-Britain. The rapid growth of the german fleet probably did not worry the British too much at first because they had an enormous lead. But then the powerful british created the "dreadnought" battleship which changed all this because it made all other battleships obsolete. This meant the germans could begin building "dreadnoughts" on equal terms with Britain. The resulting naval race was the main bone of contention between the two right up to 1914. British people thought that this meant germany was going to declare war on Britain because it was certain that the british could not be overtaken as far as capital ships were concerned and this caused tension.
D: Economic Rivalry
The desire for economic mastery of the worlds caused german business men and capitalists to want war with Britain, which still owned about half the worlds tonnage of merchant ships. This put the blame for the war on the capitalist system.
E: Russia Supported Serbia
Russian backing probably made Serbia more reckless in her Anti-austrain policy that she might otherwise have been. The russians were worried about the situation in the balkans, where both Bulgaria and Turkey were under german influence. This could enable germany and austria to control the dardanelles, the outlet from the black sea. Thus russia felt threatened and once austria declared war on servia, saw its struggle for survival. the russians must also have felt that their pretige as lead of the slavs would suffer if they failed to support serbia.
F: Germany Backing Austria at Crucial
It is significant that germany restrained the austrians from declaring war on serbia in 1913, but in 1914 encouraged them to go ahead. The kaiser sent them a telegram urging them to attack serbia and promising german help without any conditions attached. This was like giving the austrians a blank cheque to do whatever they wanted.
G: Mobilization Plans
Known as the Schlieffen Plan.
This made it seem as thought germany was being ruled by a band of unscupulous militarists. This plan assumed that France would automatically join russia, the bulk of german forces were to be sent by train to the belgian frontier, and through belgium to attack france, which would be knocked out in six weeks.
H: A "Tragedy of Miscalculation"
LCF turner suggested that the germans may not have deliberately provoked war but was caused by "tradegy of miscalulations"
The austrians miscalculated by thinking russia would not support serbia
Germany making a crucial mistake by promising to support austria with no conditions attacked
politicians in russia and germany miscalcluating by assuming that mobilizing would not necessarily mean war
The American Diplomat and historian George Kennan believed that one the 1894 alliance had been signed between France and Russia. The fat or Europe was sealed. Suspicion mounted between the two opposing camps, russia, austria-hungary, and germany got themselves into situations which they could not escape from without suffering further humiliation; war seemed to be the only war for them to save face.
B: Colonial Rivalry
In early July 1914 Anglo-German relations were good: and agreement favorable to German had just been reached over a possible partition of Portuguese colonies in Africa. However, there was one side-effect of colonial rivalry which did cause dangerous friction- this was naval rivalry.
C: Naval Race
Germany government believed in Alfred Mahan who believed the way to a great empire was through great navy. Therefore Germany needed to create a much larger navy capable of challenging the world's greatest sea power-Britain. The rapid growth of the german fleet probably did not worry the British too much at first because they had an enormous lead. But then the powerful british created the "dreadnought" battleship which changed all this because it made all other battleships obsolete. This meant the germans could begin building "dreadnoughts" on equal terms with Britain. The resulting naval race was the main bone of contention between the two right up to 1914. British people thought that this meant germany was going to declare war on Britain because it was certain that the british could not be overtaken as far as capital ships were concerned and this caused tension.
D: Economic Rivalry
The desire for economic mastery of the worlds caused german business men and capitalists to want war with Britain, which still owned about half the worlds tonnage of merchant ships. This put the blame for the war on the capitalist system.
E: Russia Supported Serbia
Russian backing probably made Serbia more reckless in her Anti-austrain policy that she might otherwise have been. The russians were worried about the situation in the balkans, where both Bulgaria and Turkey were under german influence. This could enable germany and austria to control the dardanelles, the outlet from the black sea. Thus russia felt threatened and once austria declared war on servia, saw its struggle for survival. the russians must also have felt that their pretige as lead of the slavs would suffer if they failed to support serbia.
F: Germany Backing Austria at Crucial
It is significant that germany restrained the austrians from declaring war on serbia in 1913, but in 1914 encouraged them to go ahead. The kaiser sent them a telegram urging them to attack serbia and promising german help without any conditions attached. This was like giving the austrians a blank cheque to do whatever they wanted.
G: Mobilization Plans
Known as the Schlieffen Plan.
This made it seem as thought germany was being ruled by a band of unscupulous militarists. This plan assumed that France would automatically join russia, the bulk of german forces were to be sent by train to the belgian frontier, and through belgium to attack france, which would be knocked out in six weeks.
H: A "Tragedy of Miscalculation"
LCF turner suggested that the germans may not have deliberately provoked war but was caused by "tradegy of miscalulations"
The austrians miscalculated by thinking russia would not support serbia
Germany making a crucial mistake by promising to support austria with no conditions attacked
politicians in russia and germany miscalcluating by assuming that mobilizing would not necessarily mean war
Monday, September 20, 2010
Churchill Criticizes the German Fleet
1. Explain in your own words what Churchill sees as the difference between the significance of the German and the British fleets.
I believe that Churchill sees as the difference between the significance of the German and British fleets that British naval power is essentially defensive. Britain has never had any thoughts of aggression, and we attribute no such thoughts to other great powers. The British Navy is to use a necessity and from some points of view, German Navy is to them more in the nature of luxury. It is expansion to the British.
2. Look carefully at the language Churchill uses in describing the German fleet. What impression of the German fleet does his choice of language give?
Churchill uses in describing the German Fleet a aggressive tone. The tone of Churchill gives the impression that Germany has alot of power and he is sticking up for Great Britain more than Germany. He is trying not to make Germany mad and saying good things about them but is also saying that Great Britain is better.
3. What does Churchill mean by "the ratio which our naval strength will have to bear to other great naval Powers"?
Churchill means that Great Britain will do anything to be better then the other great powers. Britain will do anything to be better than Germany because they want to be the best. Also, Britain needs there navy more than anyone.
4. How exactly is Churchill threatening Germany in this speech?
He is mostly saying that Germany doesn't need a navy as much as Britain and this threatened Germany because they believe that they need a navy just as much and Germany does not want to give up their navy just because Britain believes they need one more. Germany doesn't want to be the one without an navy and Churchill is saying that Germany doesn't need this and Britain is the one who needs the navy the most. Germany gets very defensive about this because what would one know about another countries needs.
5. This speech was studied very carefully by the German government (as Churchill knew it would be). Which parts of it might give the German government grounds to complain to the British government? What do you think was the effect Churchill intended this speech to have in Germany?
Churchill was saying that Britain never had any thoughts of aggression, and attributed no such thoughts to other great powers. He is saying that Britain is basically better then germany and that they never wanted to hurt anyone but germany did. He is comparing Britain and Germany. He said "the german navy is to them more in the nature of luxury" This would affend the germans because they want these naval races to show that their navy is getting bigger and not about the looks. "Germany was a great power, respected and honoured all over the world, nefore she had a single ship.." Churchill is saying germany used to be great but that they arent anymore and Britain is stronger. His letter was hurtful and mean towards Germany and they could use these parts of the letter to complain to the British government. He wanted germany to know that Britain had the strongest navy and they shouldnt think about having a better navy because it wasnt going to happen.
I believe that Churchill sees as the difference between the significance of the German and British fleets that British naval power is essentially defensive. Britain has never had any thoughts of aggression, and we attribute no such thoughts to other great powers. The British Navy is to use a necessity and from some points of view, German Navy is to them more in the nature of luxury. It is expansion to the British.
2. Look carefully at the language Churchill uses in describing the German fleet. What impression of the German fleet does his choice of language give?
Churchill uses in describing the German Fleet a aggressive tone. The tone of Churchill gives the impression that Germany has alot of power and he is sticking up for Great Britain more than Germany. He is trying not to make Germany mad and saying good things about them but is also saying that Great Britain is better.
3. What does Churchill mean by "the ratio which our naval strength will have to bear to other great naval Powers"?
Churchill means that Great Britain will do anything to be better then the other great powers. Britain will do anything to be better than Germany because they want to be the best. Also, Britain needs there navy more than anyone.
4. How exactly is Churchill threatening Germany in this speech?
He is mostly saying that Germany doesn't need a navy as much as Britain and this threatened Germany because they believe that they need a navy just as much and Germany does not want to give up their navy just because Britain believes they need one more. Germany doesn't want to be the one without an navy and Churchill is saying that Germany doesn't need this and Britain is the one who needs the navy the most. Germany gets very defensive about this because what would one know about another countries needs.
5. This speech was studied very carefully by the German government (as Churchill knew it would be). Which parts of it might give the German government grounds to complain to the British government? What do you think was the effect Churchill intended this speech to have in Germany?
Churchill was saying that Britain never had any thoughts of aggression, and attributed no such thoughts to other great powers. He is saying that Britain is basically better then germany and that they never wanted to hurt anyone but germany did. He is comparing Britain and Germany. He said "the german navy is to them more in the nature of luxury" This would affend the germans because they want these naval races to show that their navy is getting bigger and not about the looks. "Germany was a great power, respected and honoured all over the world, nefore she had a single ship.." Churchill is saying germany used to be great but that they arent anymore and Britain is stronger. His letter was hurtful and mean towards Germany and they could use these parts of the letter to complain to the British government. He wanted germany to know that Britain had the strongest navy and they shouldnt think about having a better navy because it wasnt going to happen.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Bismarck & Europe 1871- 1878 Labels: Bismarck, Germany, Balkans, Britain, France, Russia, Hapsburg_Empire, Ottoman_Empire
1. What were Otto von Bismarck's aims in foreign policy following Germany's victory over France in 1871?
One of Otto Von Bismarck's aims in foreign policy following Germany's victory over France in 1871 was that he wanted to keep peace with other countries so that he would not further upset the balance of power in Europe. Germany's defeat over France made Germany the most militarily powerful country in Europe, and other countries thought that maybe Bismarck was power hungry and wanted to expand. He wanted to assure them that that was not the case because he did not want to fight anymore wars because it would be pointless to him because his only goal was to protect his empire.
Bismarck to maintain this peace and he had to make sure that there were no threats to the peace. The two biggest threats of this peace were France and a conflict arriving in the Balkans. Bismarck decided to 1) isolate France so any possibility of revenge was impossible and 2) try to smooth out any issues Germany had with Austria-Hungary and the Russians so no conflict would arise. "Bismarck's diplomacy was consequently something of a delicate balancing act: he wished to keep rivalries simmering but to prevent them boiling over." Another way that he had to maintain this peace was by convincing the rest of the countries leaders that he had miraculously changed into a man who was a total supporter of peace. He did this by having meetings with the other countries leaders, the German Kaiser, the Habsburg Emperor, and the Tsar of Russia, which eventually lead to the "Three Emperors League." This league basically gave one another help in protecting their countries against the threats of socialism, republicism, and any conflict in with Austro-russia. Bismark however wasnt in the league for its ideals but for its benifits.
2. Why did events between the years 1875-78 in the Balkans lead to a crisis between the Great Powers?
Events between the years 1875-78 in the Balkans lead to a crisis between the Great Powers for many reasons. The Balkans, being what all the Great Powers wanted to achieve, was off limits to most and this made people angry. It was such a good spot and many countries wanted to expand and wanted the Balkans for this. The Balkans created a problem and lead to a crisis between the Great Powers. The Turks, allegedely massacred over 10000 Bulgarians for the Balkans. The russian volunteers were fighting in Serbia. Australians had only agreed to remain nuetral in russo. Britain stuck up for the Turks after they had massacred all these people for the Balkans. This got Serbia mad and they ended up fighting the turks but were defeated. Russia finally declared war on the Turks and they had won. Russia had one this battle but had lost the peace completely.
One of Otto Von Bismarck's aims in foreign policy following Germany's victory over France in 1871 was that he wanted to keep peace with other countries so that he would not further upset the balance of power in Europe. Germany's defeat over France made Germany the most militarily powerful country in Europe, and other countries thought that maybe Bismarck was power hungry and wanted to expand. He wanted to assure them that that was not the case because he did not want to fight anymore wars because it would be pointless to him because his only goal was to protect his empire.
Bismarck to maintain this peace and he had to make sure that there were no threats to the peace. The two biggest threats of this peace were France and a conflict arriving in the Balkans. Bismarck decided to 1) isolate France so any possibility of revenge was impossible and 2) try to smooth out any issues Germany had with Austria-Hungary and the Russians so no conflict would arise. "Bismarck's diplomacy was consequently something of a delicate balancing act: he wished to keep rivalries simmering but to prevent them boiling over." Another way that he had to maintain this peace was by convincing the rest of the countries leaders that he had miraculously changed into a man who was a total supporter of peace. He did this by having meetings with the other countries leaders, the German Kaiser, the Habsburg Emperor, and the Tsar of Russia, which eventually lead to the "Three Emperors League." This league basically gave one another help in protecting their countries against the threats of socialism, republicism, and any conflict in with Austro-russia. Bismark however wasnt in the league for its ideals but for its benifits.
2. Why did events between the years 1875-78 in the Balkans lead to a crisis between the Great Powers?
Events between the years 1875-78 in the Balkans lead to a crisis between the Great Powers for many reasons. The Balkans, being what all the Great Powers wanted to achieve, was off limits to most and this made people angry. It was such a good spot and many countries wanted to expand and wanted the Balkans for this. The Balkans created a problem and lead to a crisis between the Great Powers. The Turks, allegedely massacred over 10000 Bulgarians for the Balkans. The russian volunteers were fighting in Serbia. Australians had only agreed to remain nuetral in russo. Britain stuck up for the Turks after they had massacred all these people for the Balkans. This got Serbia mad and they ended up fighting the turks but were defeated. Russia finally declared war on the Turks and they had won. Russia had one this battle but had lost the peace completely.
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