Topic 1: Consolidation of power

Question 1

Early Cheka

Answer 1

Formed 7 December 1917
Initially only had very insignificant powers.
Given more authority from assassination attempt and German invasion.

Question 2

John Reed

Answer 2

American pro-Bolshevik journalist described them as
“the only people in Russia who had a definite program of action while the others talked for eight long months”

Question 3

How many decrees did they release in 1917?

Answer 3

116

Question 4

Decree on Land

Answer 4

26 October 1917
Allowed peasants to legally seize land belonging to the Tsar, church or gentry. Projected an image that the Bolsheviks supported the peasantry, since they had no power to stop them anyways.

Question 5

Decree on Peace

Answer 5

26 October 1917
Called for immediate peace “without annexations and without indemnities”

Question 6

Decree on the suppression of hostile newspapers

Answer 6

27 October 1917
Banned the freedom of the press and threatened to close down “open resistance or obedience towards the Workers’ and Peasants’ Government.”

Question 7

Decree on Workers’ Control

Answer 7

14 November 1917
Gave workers to right to self-manage the factories

Question 8

Decree on the rights of the People of Russia

Answer 8

2 November 1917
Abolished national discrimination and promoted equality and sovereignty

Question 9

Decree on Marriage

Answer 9

5 December 1917
Equalised marriage processes and specified that it was an act of mutual consent

Question 10

Decree on Separation of Church and State

Answer 10

23 February 1918
Religion was disassociated with the state

Question 11

Decree on Red Terror

Answer 11

5 September 1918
This entitled the Cheka to execute ‘anyone involved in White Guard organisations, conspiracies and rebellions.’