Karl Marx’s Manifesto of the Communist Party instigated a social revolution determined to end class divisions and form a self-governing, proletariat, economy called Communism. This manifesto helped the Russians realize that the constitutional monarchy cared nothing for the needs of the people; and, therefore, sparked a revolution that would end the reign of the monarchy and begin the reign of Communism in Russia. This revolution transformed Russia and lead to the formation of the Soviet Union of Russia. Unfortunately, many leaders of the communist party used socialism to legitimize their leadership, but as power can corrupt, the leaders were not faithful to the original doctrine of communism. They created their own version of a communism, one that would benefit themselves, as well as (they thought) Russia. Among one of those leaders was Joseph Stalin, a dictator who brought many years of isolation, repression, paranoia and gulags to the Russian people. Stalinism greatly differed from Marxism by ignoring the class struggle, and being a communist dictatorship.
…show more content…
Marx wanted a democratic self-government among the proletariat class. However, Marx did suggest that a proletariat could be in charge until the people were able to self-govern themselves. Once this occurred Marx promised to relinquish his position. (Marx 23). Not only did Stalin remain in charge, he limited the freedom of the people. He instituted acts of terror to prevent any rebellions against his rule, including purges and the gulags. Stalin created the NKVD, which was a secret police force. This force was established to catch and punish anyone who spoke against Stalin or his rule. People who spoke against him, were Christians, or posed a threat to anyone in Stalin’s government were eliminated during Stalin’s many purges. The whole point of Marxism was to end suffering and oppression and Stalinism was the exact
Marx wanted a democratic self-government among the proletariat class. However, Marx did suggest that a proletariat could be in charge until the people were able to self-govern themselves. Once this occurred Marx promised to relinquish his position. (Marx 23). Not only did Stalin remain in charge, he limited the freedom of the people. He instituted acts of terror to prevent any rebellions against his rule, including purges and the gulags. Stalin created the NKVD, which was a secret police force. This force was established to catch and punish anyone who spoke against Stalin or his rule. People who spoke against him, were Christians, or posed a threat to anyone in Stalin’s government were eliminated during Stalin’s many purges. The whole point of Marxism was to end suffering and oppression and Stalinism was the exact