Establishment of Communism in Russia

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the establishment of Communism in Russia, the economic policies under Lenin, and the structure of the Soviet economic planning system.

War Communism

A policy instituted by Lenin from 1918 to 1921 aimed at redistributing resources and nationalizing industries to support the Bolshevik war effort.

New Economic Policy (NEP)

A policy initiated by Lenin in 1921 that allowed private ownership of farms and small businesses while maintaining government control over major industries.

Central Planning

Also known as Command Planning, it is the process of directing the economy through centralized decisions regarding production and distribution.

Politburo

The executive committee for the Communist Party in the Soviet Union, responsible for making major policy decisions.

GOSPLAN

The state planning committee in the USSR that developed economic plans and controlled the nation's economy.

Ministries of Production

Government departments responsible for various sectors of the economy, implementing the decisions made by the Politburo and GOSPLAN.

Consistent Plan vs. Optimal Plan

A Consistent Plan is one that maintains stability over time, while an Optimal Plan aims to achieve the best possible outcome based on available resources.

Material Balance Method

A planning method that balances input and output of materials in the economy to ensure production meets demand.

Inefficiencies in Central Planning

Factors such as bureaucracy, lack of profit motive, absence of a bankruptcy system, and rigid decision-making lead to inefficiencies in the central planning system.

Dramatic Growth in Soviet Economy

Significant economic growth observed during the early years of command planning, particularly in the years immediately following the establishment of these plans.