Assess the impact of Lenin on Events in Russia between 1917 -1924

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Assess the impact of Lenin on Events in Russia between 1917 –1924

Vladimir Illyich Lenin was the leader of the Bolshevik political party. He ruled Russia from the October revolution of 1917 up until his death in 1924. During this period many important events took place. Lenin made influential contribution to these events. They main events of this period are the October revolution and the build up to revolution, the Civil war and economic policies.

    The Revolution of October 1917 was against the Provisional Government. Lenin made a major contribution to the revolution. He was the driving force behind it as he was so committed to revolution. One of the first and most important things Lenin did was to release the April Thesis. This was the Bolshevik party manifesto. It consisted of several radical actions Lenin wanted to take. The most significant was the ending of the Provisional Government. Other actions included uniting with the Soviets and ending the war. The Manifesto not only showed Lenin’s dedication to revolution but also his cunning. Lenin identified that the Soviets were the majority population in the country and so to have their support would be to have the support of over 80% of the country. He designed propaganda such as slogans like ‘Bread, peace and land’ to be able to communicate his message to the peasants in a way which they would understand and be drawn to.  

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    Also the Kornilov revolt showed Lenin’s planning and cunning. In the April Thesis Lenin stated that he wished for the end of the Provisional government. However the red army helped the provisional government fight against general Kornilov when he staged a revolt. Why would Lenin allow his army to help a group he was trying to overthrow? This was because Lenin knew that if Kornilov’ was successful in his revolt he would be harder opposition to overthrow, as he would have army power on his side and armies are organised and strategic. This again shows Lenin’s cunning and ...

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