Lenin's Economic Phases: State Capitalism, War Communism, and NEP

What was Lenin's initial economic phase called, representing a 'halfway house' to socialism?

State Capitalism

What did the Decree on Land (October 1917) technically do?

It abolished private ownership of land without compensation, allowing it to 'pass into the use of all those who cultivate it'.

What body was established in December 1917 to supervise and control economic development?

Vesenkha (The Supreme Council of the National Economy)

What did the Decree on Workers' Control (November 1917) authorize?

It gave factory committees the right to 'supervise management' and control production/finance.

Which major sector was nationalized in December 1917 to end the private flow of capital?

The Banks

What was the primary goal of the War Communism policy?

To ensure that the Red Army was supplied with munitions and food during the Civil War.

What was Prodrazvyorstka?

The forcible requisitioning of grain from peasants by armed squads.

What happened to private trade under War Communism?

It was banned; the state became the sole distributor of goods.

Who were the 'bag-men'?

Peasants and workers who traveled between villages and cities to conduct illegal black market trading.

What was the status of money by the end of War Communism?

It became virtually worthless due to hyperinflation, leading to a return to a barter economy.

What special commission was set up in 1920 to organize the production and distribution of electricity?

GOELRO

By 1921, total industrial output had fallen to what percentage of pre-war levels?

Around 20 per cent.

How many people are estimated to have died in the Famine of 1921?

Up to 5 million.

What was the economic demand of the Kronstadt rebels in 1921?

Freedom for peasants to use their land and cattle as they saw fit without requisitioning.

At which event did Lenin formally announce the New Economic Policy (NEP)?

The Tenth Party Congress in March 1921.

What did Lenin call the NEP to justify the return to some capitalist practices?

A 'tactical retreat' or 'one step backward, two steps forward'.

What replaced grain requisitioning under the NEP?

A 'tax in kind' (a fixed proportion of grain to the state), after which peasants could sell surpluses for profit.

Which sectors were known as the 'Commanding Heights' and remained under state control?

Heavy industry (coal, steel, oil), banking, and foreign trade.

Who were 'Nepmen'?

Private traders who bought produce from peasants to sell in towns and consumer goods to sell in villages for profit.

What planning agency was established in February 1921 to advise on the NEP?

Gosplan (The State General Planning Commission).

What was the 'Scissors Crisis' of 1923?

An economic imbalance where food prices dropped (due to a glut) while industrial prices rose (due to shortages).

By what year did Soviet industrial production reach its 1913 pre-war levels again?

1926.