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Which of the following saw more important changes during Stalin's modernisation of the USSR: - agriculture - industry? Explain your answer with reference to both bullet points. - AQA - GCSE History - Question 6 - 2023 - Paper 1
Question 6
Which of the following saw more important changes during Stalin's modernisation of the USSR: - agriculture - industry? Explain your answer with reference to both b... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Which of the following saw more important changes during Stalin's modernisation of the USSR: - agriculture - industry? Explain your answer with reference to both bullet points. - AQA - GCSE History - Question 6 - 2023 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain your answer with reference to agriculture
Answer
During Stalin's modernization efforts, agriculture underwent significant changes through the implementation of the collectivization policy. This policy aimed to consolidate individual landholdings into large, state-run farms called Kolkhozes and Sovkhozes. By doing so, Stalin sought to increase agricultural productivity and efficiency, as it was believed that large-scale farming could produce more food.
This transformation faced many challenges, including resistance from peasants, particularly the wealthier Kulaks who opposed losing their land. The aftermath of collectivization often led to widespread famine, notably the Holodomor in Ukraine, which caused millions of deaths. Despite this, the policy was deemed necessary for securing food supplies for the growing urban workforce essential for industrialization.
Step 2
Explain your answer with reference to industry
Answer
In the realm of industry, Stalin implemented a series of ambitious Five Year Plans starting in 1928, which focused on rapid industrial growth. The primary goal was to transform the USSR from an agrarian society into an industrial powerhouse. The first Five Year Plan prioritized heavy industry, such as steel and machinery production. Significant investments were made in infrastructure, including the construction of new cities like Magnitogorsk to accommodate the burgeoning workforce.
This industrial boom resulted in increased production levels; however, it came at a high cost. Workers faced harsh conditions, and the need for rapid progress often led to unrealistic production targets that ended up skewing the true output figures. Nevertheless, industry became the backbone of the Soviet economy, which ultimately contributed to the USSR's capacity to withstand external threats during World War II.