Soviet Union vs. Soviet Union 1939

Attribute	Soviet Union	Soviet Union 1939
Year Established	1922	1939
Leader	Joseph Stalin	Joseph Stalin
Capital	Moscow	Moscow
Territory	15 republics	15 republics
Population	Approx. 293 million	Approx. 168 million
Political System	Communist state	Communist state

Political System

The Soviet Union, established in 1922, was a socialist state led by the Communist Party. It was a one-party state with the Communist Party holding all political power. The government controlled all aspects of society, including the economy, media, and education. In contrast, the Soviet Union in 1939 had undergone significant political changes. Stalin had consolidated power and established a totalitarian regime. The Great Purge of the late 1930s resulted in the elimination of perceived enemies of the state, including party members, military leaders, and intellectuals.

Economic System

Both the Soviet Union and the Soviet Union in 1939 operated under a command economy. The government controlled all means of production and distribution of goods and services. However, there were differences in economic policies between the two periods. In the early years of the Soviet Union, there was a focus on rapid industrialization and collectivization of agriculture. By 1939, the economy had stabilized, and there was a greater emphasis on consumer goods and improving living standards for the population.

Social Structure

The social structure of the Soviet Union was characterized by a rigid hierarchy based on party membership and loyalty to the state. The elite class consisted of party officials, military leaders, and intellectuals who enjoyed privileges not available to the general population. In 1939, the social structure had evolved to reflect the changes in political and economic policies. The Great Purge had resulted in the elimination of many party members and intellectuals, leading to a restructuring of the elite class.

Foreign Relations

During its early years, the Soviet Union faced hostility from Western powers, particularly the United States and Great Britain. The Soviet Union in 1939 had signed a non-aggression pact with Nazi Germany, which allowed for the partition of Poland and the Baltic states. This agreement was seen as a strategic move to buy time and avoid a two-front war. However, it ultimately led to the Soviet Union being invaded by Germany in 1941.

Cultural and Intellectual Life

The cultural and intellectual life of the Soviet Union was heavily influenced by the state. Artists, writers, and scientists were expected to promote socialist ideals and glorify the achievements of the Communist Party. In 1939, the cultural and intellectual life had been significantly impacted by the Great Purge. Many prominent figures in the arts and sciences had been arrested or executed, leading to a climate of fear and self-censorship.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the attributes of the Soviet Union and the Soviet Union in 1939 were shaped by the political, economic, social, and cultural changes that occurred during this period. While both periods were characterized by a command economy and a one-party state, there were significant differences in terms of political repression, foreign relations, and cultural life. The Great Purge of the late 1930s had a lasting impact on Soviet society and set the stage for the events of World War II.