After the FYP the growth of industry had increased. The soviet industries had advanced; Russia was now the 2nd biggest industrial power in 1941 and was no longer an easy target for invasion, especially the Germans. New industrial centres developed and old areas were re developed, e.g. Magnitogorsk is a massive town producing steel, a hydro-electric dam was built on the River Drieper and transport was developed, e.g. Belomor Canal.
The urban population had increased by 29 million in 1929 to 1939. Between 1929 and 1937 investment in education and training schemes created a skilled workforce which meant the production levels of machinery increased. Workers were encouraged to match achievements of model workers, medals were awarded to those who worked hard. However, fines were imposed for lateness and bad workmanship. Workers who were absent for more than a day were sacked, the secret police urged workers to inform on one another and anyone blamed for obstructing work could be sent to a labour camp or shot.
Women were encouraged to work to help to achieve plans and to have children because of the falling population, facilities such as crèches were provided in factories to help them have children and to work. Teachers, scientist, engineers and skilled workers were paid higher wages than ordinary workers. They also received extra benefits such as better housing. The group enjoyed a higher standard of living than everybody else.
On the other hand the living conditions for the not so fortunate were horrendous. It was impossible to build enough new houses for the millions of peasants who came to the cities. Most families had to live in overcrowded, rundown buildings. Food was rationed at first but the conditions improved. Workers were poorly paid and wages fell by 50%. The goods often produced were of poor quality and the shortage of consumer goods including clothes and shoes remained because emphasis on heavy industry was due to the war. Crime rate increased due to alcoholism and juvenile delinquency.
Although for some of the population the consequences of the FYP was not too great because of the housing and food situation and the harsh treatment if targets were not met but I think on the whole the FYP was very successful. Production levels had increased and Children received free education and free health care schemes were extended. The unemployment rate had decreased and those who had a good job such as scientist and engineers were happy because they had good lifestyle and good pay. The Five Year Plans did bring benefits to Russia as an industrial country but there were downsides. In 1928 Russia was at risk of invasion but ten years later it was the 2nd most industrial power.
