The Charisma of World Revolution: Revolutionary Internationalism in Early Soviet Society, 1917–1927

The Charism of World Revolution examines the discourses and practices of internationalism in early Soviet society during the years of revolution, civil war, and NEP, using forgotten archival materials and contemporary sources. It provides a well-rounded and inspiring portrait of internationalism in an era of global struggle that will help today's readers understand what it looked like.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 585 pages
Publication date: 23 January 2024
Publisher: Haymarket Books

The Bolshevik leaders were well aware of the importance of the idea of a world revolution in the years following the 1917 revolution. This idea was crucial for their vision of a socialist society and their desire to spread the revolution to other parts of the world. However, it is not clear what the party's rank and file made of this idea, or how it resonated with the general population.

A social history of international solidarity can provide valuable insights into the transformation of Soviet society from the NEP to Stalinism. During the NEP period, the Soviet government pursued a policy of economic liberalization and social reform, which included increased trade with other countries and the formation of international organizations such as the League of Nations. This policy was seen as a way to modernize the Soviet economy and to promote international cooperation.

However, the NEP also led to the emergence of a new class of wealthy businessmen and industrialists, who were able to exploit the economic opportunities provided by the NEP to gain control of the Soviet economy and to undermine the power of the state. This led to the emergence of a conservative backlash against the NEP, which was led by Stalin and his supporters.

Stalin's policies were characterized by a rejection of internationalism and a return to a more centralized and authoritarian form of government. He sought to strengthen the Soviet state's control over the economy and to eliminate any opposition to his rule. This led to the purges of the 1930s, which were aimed at eliminating any potential opponents of Stalinism.

In conclusion, the idea of a world revolution was crucial for the Bolshevik leaders in the years following the 1917 revolution. However, it is not clear what the party's rank and file made of this idea, or how it resonated with the general population. A social history of international solidarity can provide valuable insights into the transformation of Soviet society from the NEP to Stalinism, by showing how the policies of the Soviet government during this period were shaped by the international context in which they operated.

Weight: 860g
Dimension: 154 x 228 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9798888900048