Life in Post-1917 Russia: Betrayal, Revolution, and Resilience

The year 1917 marked a watershed moment in Russian history, punctuated by two revolutions that altered the course of the nation permanently. The infamous betrayal and deceit that pervaded every facet of Russian life, from the Tsar's throne to the hearts of ordinary citizens, are vividly portrayed in the historical narrative of those tumultuous times.

The February Revolution and Its Aftermath

On March 2, 1917 (February 15, Old Style), the Russian Empire faced a turning point that would redefine its political landscape. At 10:40 PM, the "real" political revolution began, marking a departure from previous insurrections and coups. General A. Mosolov described the Tsar's entourage at headquarters as showing "a dullness, lack of will, apathy, and predetermined reconciliation with possible disasters." This lack of will among the Tsar's closest advisors was a microcosm of a systemic crisis in motion, one that would lead to revolutionary change.

Had Tsar Nicholas II been more resolute and called upon the Cossacks to quell the unrest, the situation might have been reversed. Instead, the Tsar's inaction and the systemic betrayal extended far beyond the palace and into society at large, including betrayal from trusted allies, the Church, and even relatives. This systemic breakdown paved the way for the rise of the Bolsheviks and the birth of the Soviet Union.

From the Kingdom to the Soviet State

The old order was discarded, but not without deep societal trauma. Following the February Revolution, Russia underwent another upheaval, the October Revolution, which brought the Bolsheviks to power. The monarchy, which had symbolized stability and continuity, was no more. In its place, a new political entity emerged, the Soviet Union, a state determined to rebuild and restore order through its own means. The former elites and defenders of the old Tsarist regime found themselves sidelined in the new power structure.

Beyond the political upheaval, the economic consequences of the revolutions were severe. The New Economic Policy (NEP) attempted to restore some economic stability, but the years following 1917 were marked by chaos. Civil war, widespread hunger, hyperinflation, economic collapse, and a rampant crime wave characterized the period. Life for many Russians was a nightmare, as documented in historical accounts and scholarly works.

Personal Glimpses into Soviet Life

Surviving the 1917 revolutions required resilience and adaptability. One firsthand account is that of my wife’s grandmother, who joined the Communist Party at the tender age of 16, around 1932-33. She was trained as a radio engineer, roughly equivalent to today's electrical engineers, and worked in establishing radio stations throughout the Soviet Union. Her role, often on the front lines, underscores the ingenuity and bravery of those who helped construct the new Soviet state.

During the Great Patriotic War, she served as a partisan radio operator behind German lines. If captured, this would have meant certain death. Her story illustrates the courage and determination of those who fought for the Soviet cause in the deadliest of circumstances. It also speaks to the harsh realities of war and the deep commitment to the new Soviet state.

Further Reading and Resources

To gain a deeper understanding of Russian life in the years following the 1917 revolutions, consider exploring the following resources:

Russia in the Shadows - Wikipedia Books on the 1917 revolutions, specifically focusing on the social and economic impacts. Documentaries and films that capture the daily life and struggles of people during this period.

For additional insights into other historical periods, please specify your interest or requirements. I am also available to discuss the experiences of individuals living after 1917 in modern times.