Marxism-Leninism

Definition

Marxism-Leninism is a political ideology that combines the theories of Karl Marx and Vladimir Lenin, advocating for a revolutionary approach to overthrow capitalism and establish a dictatorship of the proletariat. This ideology emphasizes the necessity of a vanguard party to lead the working class in achieving a communist society, where the means of production are collectively owned. It played a critical role in shaping the policies and governance of the Soviet Union, especially under Stalin's regime during significant events like the Five-Year Plans.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Marxism-Leninism became the guiding doctrine for the Soviet Union after the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917, establishing the foundation for state policies.
2. Under Stalin, Marxism-Leninism was used to justify rapid industrialization and collectivization through a series of ambitious Five-Year Plans.
3. Stalin's interpretation of Marxism-Leninism involved significant state control over the economy and suppression of dissent, leading to widespread purges.
4. Marxism-Leninism not only influenced domestic policies but also served as a model for communist movements globally, particularly in Eastern Europe and Asia.
5. The ideology promotes the idea that socialism can only be achieved through revolution and that a disciplined vanguard party is essential to guide this process.

Review Questions

• How did Marxism-Leninism influence Stalin's policies during his rise to power?
  • Marxism-Leninism provided Stalin with a framework to implement radical changes in Soviet society as he rose to power. He utilized its principles to justify aggressive industrialization and collectivization efforts aimed at transforming the Soviet economy. By positioning himself as a true follower of Lenin's vision, Stalin consolidated power and eliminated rivals who questioned his interpretation, ultimately reshaping Soviet governance.
• Evaluate how Stalin's implementation of Marxism-Leninism affected the lives of ordinary Soviet citizens during the Five-Year Plans.
  • Stalin's implementation of Marxism-Leninism through the Five-Year Plans significantly impacted ordinary Soviet citizens. These plans prioritized rapid industrial growth, leading to harsh labor conditions and food shortages due to forced collectivization. While some citizens benefited from new job opportunities in factories, many faced famine and oppression as dissent against these policies was brutally suppressed. The focus on state control over production often resulted in widespread suffering and disillusionment among the population.
• Assess the long-term implications of Marxism-Leninism on Soviet society and its global influence following Stalin's era.
  • The long-term implications of Marxism-Leninism on Soviet society were profound, as it entrenched a one-party state that stifled political dissent and promoted state control over all aspects of life. This ideology influenced various communist movements around the world, leading to regimes in countries like China, Cuba, and Vietnam adopting similar principles. However, the economic struggles and political repression associated with Marxism-Leninism ultimately contributed to its decline in popularity by the late 20th century, resulting in reforms within the Soviet Union and significant shifts in global politics.

Related terms

Bolshevism: A faction of the Russian Social Democratic Labour Party led by Lenin that advocated for a radical, revolutionary approach to achieving socialism.

Dictatorship of the Proletariat: A Marxist concept where the working class holds political power, suppressing opposition from the bourgeoisie to facilitate the transition to communism.

Collectivization:

A policy aimed at consolidating individual landholdings and labor into collective farms, which was a major component of Stalin's economic strategy.