Key Themes of 20th Century Understandings: The Russian Revolution to World War II

This set of flashcards covers key themes and events from the Russian Revolution to World War II, including relevant political, economic, and social contexts.

What were the main consequences of the Russian Revolution of 1917-18?

The establishment of the Bolshevik regime, significant political and social transformations, and the Bolshevik survival through World War II.

What was the context in which Russia entered World War I?

Russia joined on the side of the Triple Entente (Britain and France) marketed as a defense against Germany and Austria-Hungary.

How did military discipline affect the Russian army during WWI?

Harsh discipline led to discontent, undermining morale and cohesion due to unrealistic campaign expectations and class divides between officers and soldiers.

Identify the four main demands of the Russian populace during the revolution.

1. Peace, 2. Bread, 3. Land, 4. Freedom.

What was the role of the Bolshevik Party post-1917?

They sought immediate socialist revolution and emphasized the need for a tightly organized vanguard party to lead the working class.

What was the outcome of the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk?

Russia ceded significant territory and resources to Germany in exchange for withdrawal from WWI.

What significance did the Storming of the Winter Palace hold?

It symbolized the collapse of the Provisional Government and marked a critical moment in the revolution.

What was War Communism and its role during the civil war?

Economic strategy where the state confiscated resources to supply the Red Army, leading to widespread discontent and famine.

Why was the New Economic Policy (NEP) introduced?

To revive the economy following unrest due to War Communism by allowing limited private enterprise and market elements.

How did the Versailles settlement impact Germany post-WWI?

It imposed reparations, territorial losses, and contributed to political instability, leading to significant public discontent.

What did Woodrow Wilson advocate at the Paris Peace Conference?

National self-determination, but his ambiguity frustrated many nations seeking independence.

What was one of the key reasons for the failure of the League of Nations?

Inability to enforce compliance among member states, often due to national sovereignty concerns.

Describe the economic context leading to the Great Depression in the U.S.

Stock market crashes, massive unemployment, and the collapse of international trade relationships characterized this period.

How did cultural consumption change during the 1920s and 1930s?

The rise of mass media and technological innovations transformed cultural engagement, creating new forms of entertainment and social interaction.

What was the significance of the Battle of Stalingrad during WWII?

It marked a critical turning point, leading to the decline of German advances in the Soviet Union.

What factors contributed to Allied success in WWII?

Logistics coordination, economic mobilization, air superiority, military experience, and technological innovation played pivotal roles.

What was the impact of American isolationism during the interwar years?

It reflected a reluctance to engage in international treaties and responsibilities, ultimately contributing to global instability leading into WWII.

What role did the concept of total war play in WWII?

Total war required complete mobilization of economies and resources, differing starkly among the totalitarian regimes involved.

How did the interconnectedness of global economies shape responses to the Great Depression?

Countries resorted to protectionist policies, leading to a breakdown in international cooperation and exacerbating economic challenges.

What ideological differences did fascism and communism represent during the interwar years?

Fascism embodied militaristic nationalism and totalitarian control, while communism aimed for solidarity among the working class and advocated for a classless society.

What was the effect of the Amritsar massacre in 1919 on India's independence movement?

It galvanized anti-colonial sentiments and intensified the demand for complete independence from British rule.